1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1977 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Nissan Laurel (127 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 155 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1977 Nissan Laurel (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1977 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
