2006 Dodge Caliber vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caliber is newer by 25 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caliber (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 380 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, 2006 Dodge Caliber, 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, 2006 Dodge Caliber (310 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caliber | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caliber | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
