2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 535 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, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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, 2004 Ford Taurus (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 2004 Ford Taurus 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. 2004 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Taurus | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Taurus | Skyline |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1809 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 93 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |