1996 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1996 Audi A4 is newer by 15 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A4 weights approximately 82 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, 1996 Audi A4, 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, 1996 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A4 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
