1998 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1985 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 180 kg more than 1985 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan Skyline. 1985 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Nissan Skyline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | 1985 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Beetle | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1899 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
