2004 Audi A8 vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 23 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 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 480 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A8 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:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A8 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
