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 (161 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (97 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. 2008 Ford Fusion weights approximately 2 kg more than 1981 Nissan Leopard. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard.
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 | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1105 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 |
