2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1981 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 411 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 S-Max, 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 S-Max (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 1981 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | S-Max | Leopard |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
