1982 Nissan Leopard vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Nissan Leopard is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Nissan Leopard (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Nissan Leopard should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 233 kg more than 1982 Nissan Leopard.
Because 1982 Nissan Leopard 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 1982 Nissan Leopard. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1982 Nissan Leopard (148 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1982 Nissan Leopard will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Nissan Leopard | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Leopard | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
