1981 Nissan Skyline vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 338 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 1981 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 1981 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Skyline | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Skyline | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| 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 | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
