1992 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1992 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda 323 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda 323 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1978 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Mazda 323 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Nissan Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1992 Mazda 323 (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Laurel. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Laurel. 1978 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 1992 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1992 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 323 | 1978 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2680 mm |
