1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 15 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 217 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | Z3 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
