1977 Nissan Laurel vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1977 Nissan Laurel. (129 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1977 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Nissan Laurel 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 1977 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1977 Nissan Laurel (221 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Nissan Laurel | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Laurel | 3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |
