1972 AMC Javelin vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1981 Nissan Skyline is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Javelin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Javelin (151 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Javelin should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Javelin weights approximately 260 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 1972 AMC Javelin 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 1972 AMC Javelin. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Skyline, 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, 1972 AMC Javelin (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Javelin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 1972 AMC Javelin has manual transmission. 1972 AMC Javelin 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:
| 1972 AMC Javelin | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | AMC | Nissan |
| Model | Javelin | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
