1984 Nissan Pulsar vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Nissan Pulsar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Nissan Pulsar would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1984 Nissan Pulsar. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Nissan Pulsar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 305 kg more than 1984 Nissan Pulsar. 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Nissan Pulsar. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Nissan Pulsar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Nissan Pulsar | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pulsar | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 3010 mm |
