1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 28 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 237 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | Laurel | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
