2008 Nissan Altima vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima 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 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Altima weights approximately 455 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 1981 Nissan Skyline 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 Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Nissan Altima | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
Make | Nissan | Nissan |
Model | Altima | Skyline |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2491 cc | 1951 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1085 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2620 mm |