1997 Mazda 323 vs. 1972 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1972 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1972 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Nissan Laurel. (155 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 1972 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1815 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
