1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2011 Nissan NP300
To start off, 2011 Nissan NP300 is newer by 30 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 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan NP300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan NP300 (141 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (120 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan NP300 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan NP300 weights approximately 292 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, 2011 Nissan NP300, 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, 2011 Nissan NP300 (205 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan NP300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2011 Nissan NP300 | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | Cosmo | NP300 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2960 mm |
