2008 Ford Fusion vs. 1981 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 2008 Ford Fusion is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Fusion (160 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Leopard weights approximately 78 kg more than 2008 Ford Fusion.
Because 1981 Nissan Leopard 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 Leopard. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Fusion, 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 Ford Fusion (212 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard. 1981 Nissan Leopard has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Fusion has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Fusion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Leopard will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fusion | 1981 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Fusion | Leopard |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
