1978 Nissan Skyline vs. 2007 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2007 Nissan Xterra is newer by 29 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 240 kg more than 1978 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Nissan Xterra, 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, 2007 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline. 2007 Nissan Xterra has automatic transmission and 1978 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1978 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Skyline | 2007 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Skyline | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
