1996 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette 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 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette (330 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 330 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 1996 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1996 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Skyline, 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 Chevrolet Corvette (461 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 1996 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Skyline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Chevrolet Corvette | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
Model | Corvette | Skyline |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5737 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 330 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4610 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |