2006 Mazda 6 vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 25 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 2,966 cc, 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 116 kg more than 2006 Mazda 6.
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, 2006 Mazda 6, 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (222 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 6 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 2753 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
