USA vs Japan — 1981 vs 1984
| DMC-12 PRV V6 | 200SX Turbo (S12) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 135 hp |
| Torque | 153 lb-ft | 148 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,849 cc | 1,809 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 8.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.9 sec | 16.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,712 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,413 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 4,267 mm | 4,400 mm |
| Units Produced | 9,000 | — |
| Original MSRP | $25,000 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 PRV V6 brings stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1984 Nissan 200SX Turbo (S12) answers with quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between USA and Japan automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 PRV V6 versus 1984 Nissan 200SX Turbo (S12) is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 PRV V6 producing 130 hp and the 1984 Nissan 200SX Turbo (S12) delivering 135 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the DeLorean DMC-12 uses a V6 SOHC (PRV) displacing 2,849 cc, while the Nissan 200SX relies on a Inline-4 SOHC 8V Turbocharged with 1,809 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1984 Nissan 200SX Turbo (S12) edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 PRV V6 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.