2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1973 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 2 (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (98 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 668 kg more than 1973 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 2, 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, 1973 Nissan Laurel (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1973 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 2 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2680 mm |
