2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1978 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 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 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (135 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 247 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 2004 Mazda RX-8 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1978 Nissan Skyline | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | RX-8 | Skyline |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1145 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |