1981 Toyota Celica vs. 2012 Nissan NP300
To start off, 2012 Nissan NP300 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan NP300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan NP300 (141 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Celica. (107 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan NP300 should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan NP300 weights approximately 219 kg more than 1981 Toyota Celica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Celica 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 Toyota Celica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan NP300, 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 Nissan NP300 (205 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Celica. (147 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan NP300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Toyota Celica | 2012 Nissan NP300 | |
| Make | Toyota | Nissan |
| Model | Celica | NP300 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 107 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2960 mm |
