1997 Nissan Sunny vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1997 Nissan Sunny is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Sunny is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Sunny (74 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Sunny should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Sunny weights approximately 420 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Sunny, 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, 1997 Nissan Sunny (132 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Sunny will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Sunny | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sunny | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
