2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1974 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1974 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 14 kg more than 1974 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Nissan Laurel. (169 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1974 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1990 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
