1992 Ford Taurus vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1992 Ford Taurus is newer by 11 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Ford Taurus (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
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, 1992 Ford Taurus, 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, 1992 Ford Taurus (271 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Taurus | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Taurus | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
