2008 Lexus IS vs. 1978 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (270 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 405 kg more than 1978 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1978 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Lexus | Nissan |
| Model | IS | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
