1986 Nissan Leopard vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1986 Nissan Leopard is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Nissan Leopard is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Nissan Leopard (98 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Nissan Leopard should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Nissan Leopard weights approximately 285 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Nissan Leopard. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1986 Nissan Leopard (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 Nissan Leopard will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Nissan Leopard | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Leopard | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
