2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 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 15 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 21 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
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, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (222 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 3 | Laurel |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2753 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1266 kg | 1245 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |