2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 737 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | S | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
