2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1978 Nissan Silvia
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Silvia. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Silvia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 210 kg more than 1978 Nissan Silvia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Nissan Silvia 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 1978 Nissan Silvia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (166 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Silvia. (148 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1978 Nissan Silvia | |
Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
Model | New Beetle | Silvia |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1770 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 166 Nm | 148 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2350 mm |