1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 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 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 52 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
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, 2005 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | Laurel | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
