2005 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Skyline (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 100 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Skyline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Golf | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Golf | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
