2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Taurus weights approximately 57 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 2009 Ford Taurus 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 Taurus 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 Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 2009 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Taurus | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2620 mm |
