1978 Nissan Skyline vs. 2011 Volvo C30
To start off, 2011 Volvo C30 is newer by 33 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo C30 weights approximately 403 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, 2011 Volvo C30, 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, 2011 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Nissan Skyline | 2011 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | Skyline | C30 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1453 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4265 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
