1982 Nissan Pulsar vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1982 Nissan Pulsar is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,270 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Nissan Pulsar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Nissan Pulsar (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Nissan Pulsar should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Nissan Pulsar weights approximately 125 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Nissan Pulsar, 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 Pulsar (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1982 Nissan Pulsar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Nissan Pulsar | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pulsar | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2410 mm |
