1981 Nissan Stanza vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1177 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (151 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Stanza | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Stanza | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1952 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
