1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 1996 Mazda 626 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 48 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 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 1979 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 626, 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | Laurel | 626 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
