1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1997 Nissan Maxima is newer by 16 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 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 155 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Maxima | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
