2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 21 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 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 749 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 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Nissan Skyline. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer 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:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2620 mm |
