2012 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1980 Nissan Bluebird
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Bluebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Bluebird would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Nissan Bluebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Bluebird. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 110 kg more than 1980 Nissan Bluebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Nissan Bluebird 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 1980 Nissan Bluebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Bluebird. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Bluebird. 1980 Nissan Bluebird has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Nissan Bluebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Volkswagen Beetle | 1980 Nissan Bluebird | |
Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
Model | Beetle | Bluebird |
Year Released | 2012 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2393 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4278 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1808 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1486 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2537 mm | 2530 mm |