1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 2012 Alpina B7
To start off, 2012 Alpina B7 is newer by 31 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alpina B7 (500 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 411 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alpina B7 weights approximately 1095 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 2012 Alpina B7 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Nissan Skyline. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Alpina B7 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 Alpina B7 (699 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 566 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 2012 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 2012 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | Nissan | Alpina |
| Model | Skyline | B7 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3071 mm |
