1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1979 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1979 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1979 Nissan 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1979 Nissan Laurel (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1979 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 1979 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 323 | Laurel |
Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1768 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 147 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |