2001 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2001 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 20 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 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 555 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 2001 Ford Thunderbird 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 2001 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 2001 Ford Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 2001 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Ford Thunderbird | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Thunderbird | Skyline |
Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3933 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 249 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 388 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4610 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |