2004 Volvo S80 vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (167 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 399 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 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo S80 | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Volvo | Nissan |
| Model | S80 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
