2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1977 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1977 Nissan Skyline. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1977 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Nissan Skyline. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1977 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
