1983 Nissan Skyline vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 150 kg more than 1983 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (166 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Nissan Skyline | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
