2003 Opel Vectra vs. 1981 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (209 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 540 kg more than 1981 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Skyline. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Skyline. 1981 Nissan Skyline has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Skyline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Vectra | 1981 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Opel | Nissan |
| Model | Vectra | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
