2001 Mazda Atenza vs. 1978 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2001 Mazda Atenza is newer by 23 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Atenza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda Atenza (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Atenza should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 110 kg more than 2001 Mazda Atenza.
Because 1978 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 1978 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Atenza, 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, 2001 Mazda Atenza (240 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Laurel. (147 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda Atenza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda Atenza | 1978 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | Atenza | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
