2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 28 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 4,007 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 84 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Nissan Skyline. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4007 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
