2004 Opel Vectra vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 420 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 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2004 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Opel | Nissan |
| Model | Vectra | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2620 mm |
