1978 Nissan Skyline vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 25 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (209 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 435 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, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (163 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Skyline | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Skyline | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2840 mm |
