1998 BMW 318 vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 17 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, 1998 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 170 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 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 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:
1998 BMW 318 | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
Make | BMW | Nissan |
Model | 318 | Skyline |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4610 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |