2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1978 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (135 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 1009 kg more than 1978 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Nissan Skyline, 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 1978 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Nissan |
| Model | SSR | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
