2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 1978 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (135 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 83 kg more than 1978 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Nissan Skyline. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 1978 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Frontier | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1228 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2620 mm |
