2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Skyline (93 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
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 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | A | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
