2005 Volvo S40 vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S40 weights approximately 182 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 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 2005 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2005 Volvo S40 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:
| 2005 Volvo S40 | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Volvo | Nissan |
| Model | S40 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2434 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
