1987 Lada Samara vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 6 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 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Skyline (93 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1987 Lada Samara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 125 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara. 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, 1987 Lada Samara, 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, 1981 Nissan Skyline (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lada Samara. (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Lada | Nissan |
| Model | Samara | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1458 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 93 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
