2009 Lexus LS vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline

To start off, 2009 Lexus LS 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 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (280 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 755 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.

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, 2009 Lexus LS (417 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 2009 Lexus LS 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 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Lexus LS 1981 Nissan Skyline
Make Lexus Nissan
Model LS Skyline
Year Released 2009 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4293 cc 1951 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 280 HP 111 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 417 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1840 kg 1085 kg
Vehicle Length 5030 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2930 mm 2620 mm