1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 1987 Nissan Santana
To start off, 1987 Nissan Santana is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 93 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan Santana weights approximately 20 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Nissan Santana, 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, 1981 Nissan Skyline (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Nissan Santana. (143 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Nissan Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 1987 Nissan Santana | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Skyline | Santana |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1987 |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
