1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 27 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 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 561 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Nissan | Hyundai |
| Model | Skyline | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
