1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1997 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1997 Nissan Laurel is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Laurel (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 Nissan Laurel (190 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1997 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1997 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2730 mm |
