2005 Nissan Altima vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima is newer by 24 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (260 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 402 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, 2005 Nissan Altima, 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, 2005 Nissan Altima (334 Nm) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (167 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Altima | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Altima | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2620 mm |
