1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 2012 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2012 Suzuki SX4 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 1,956 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Suzuki SX4 (133 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 355 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, 2012 Suzuki SX4, 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, 2012 Suzuki SX4 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 2012 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Nissan | Suzuki |
| Model | Skyline | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1605 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2500 mm |
