1978 Nissan Skyline vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 34 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (135 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 422 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 2012 Lexus IS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Nissan Skyline. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS will offer significantly more control. 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 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Skyline | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Nissan | Lexus |
| Model | Skyline | IS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2731 mm |
