2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1980 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 315 kg more than 1980 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Dodge Caliber (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1980 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Caliber | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
