1978 Nissan Skyline vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1981 Nissan Skyline is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 106 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 1978 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 1978 Nissan Skyline. 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, 1978 Nissan Skyline (163 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Skyline | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Skyline | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
