2003 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 23 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 191 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.
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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1980 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | M3 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
