2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1980 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 69 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Skyline. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1980 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2258 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
