2009 Nissan Altima vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 396 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, 2009 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, 2009 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Altima has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Altima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Skyline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Nissan Altima | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
Make | Nissan | Nissan |
Model | Altima | Skyline |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1809 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 270 HP | 93 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |