2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Skyline 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 4 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 115 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Skyline. 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, 1981 Nissan Skyline (167 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 1981 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | New Beetle | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
