1996 Nissan Laurel vs. 2009 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Matrix (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1996 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 1996 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix, 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 Toyota Matrix (174 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Laurel | 2009 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Nissan | Toyota |
| Model | Laurel | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
