2003 Lincoln Continental vs. 1980 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 Lincoln Continental 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lincoln Continental (217 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 705 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.
Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lincoln Continental, 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 Lincoln Continental (372 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Skyline. 2003 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 1980 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1980 Nissan Skyline will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lincoln Continental | 1980 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Lincoln | Nissan |
| Model | Continental | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5250 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2520 mm |
