1980 Nissan Skyline vs. 2011 Mazda 5
To start off, 2011 Mazda 5 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 5 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1980 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 5, 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 Mazda 5 (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Skyline. 2011 Mazda 5 has automatic transmission and 1980 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1980 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Nissan Skyline | 2011 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Skyline | 5 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2751 mm |
