1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (149 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 156 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Skyline | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
