2003 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A3 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1971 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3, 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, 1971 Nissan Skyline (160 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1971 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Audi | Nissan |
| Model | A3 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
