2003 Mazda 323 vs. 1985 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 Mazda 323 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 323 (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Skyline. (93 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 323 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1985 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 323, 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, 1985 Nissan Skyline (149 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1985 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 323 | 1985 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
