1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 195 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, 2010 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, 2010 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2010 Mazda 3 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. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | Laurel | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
