2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 142 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 1978 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 1978 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (163 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1978 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
