1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2008 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 29 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (212 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 141 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.
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, 2008 Mazda 6, 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, 2008 Mazda 6 (267 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2008 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2008 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | Laurel | 6 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
