1986 Nissan Leopard vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Leopard. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 293 kg more than 1986 Nissan Leopard. 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, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (171 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan Leopard. (147 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Leopard.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Nissan Leopard | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Leopard | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
