2008 Dodge Dakota vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline

To start off, 2008 Dodge Dakota is newer by 27 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 473 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 2008 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Nissan Skyline. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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 Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Dakota 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:

2008 Dodge Dakota 1981 Nissan Skyline
Make Dodge Nissan
Model Dakota Skyline
Year Released 2008 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3701 cc 2792 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 85 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 319 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1691 kg 1218 kg
Vehicle Length 5560 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1750 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 3340 mm 2620 mm