1996 Lexus ES vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1996 Lexus ES 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus ES weights approximately 480 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 Lexus ES, 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 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus ES | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | ES | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
