2009 Buick Lucerne vs. 1980 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Buick Lucerne is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick Lucerne (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Skyline.
Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne, 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, 2009 Buick Lucerne (391 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Skyline. 2009 Buick Lucerne has automatic transmission and 1980 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1980 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Buick Lucerne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Buick Lucerne | 1980 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Buick | Nissan |
| Model | Lucerne | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
