2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1982 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1982 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1982 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 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 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 414 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Nissan Laurel. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1982 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 576 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
