1978 Nissan Skyline vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 1997 Renault Espace is newer by 19 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 2,963 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Espace (166 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 600 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 1978 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 1978 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Renault Espace, 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, 1997 Renault Espace (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline. 1997 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1978 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1978 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Skyline | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Nissan | Renault |
| Model | Skyline | Espace |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2963 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
