1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 is newer by 8 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 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 440 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 130 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Volvo 440 (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 440 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Skyline | 440 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
