1998 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus 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 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 65 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, 1998 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Focus | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
