2012 Toyota 4Runner vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2012 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 31 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota 4Runner (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 778 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 2012 Toyota 4Runner 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, 2012 Toyota 4Runner 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, 2012 Toyota 4Runner (376 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Toyota 4Runner | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Toyota | Nissan |
| Model | 4Runner | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 376 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1996 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4823 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1925 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1816 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2789 mm | 2620 mm |
