1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 451 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Skyline is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Nissan Skyline | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Skyline | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 93 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 149 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1501 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4246 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1782 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |