2005 Mazda 2 vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2005 Mazda 2 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Laurel (123 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 120 kg more than 2005 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1981 Nissan Laurel (222 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 2. (107 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 2 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 2 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
