1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2009 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Sentra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (102 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 344 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2009 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2009 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | Cosmo | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2690 mm |
