2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1977 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1977 Nissan Laurel. (129 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 165 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1977 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 1977 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1977 Nissan Laurel (221 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1977 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1977 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2753 cc |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| 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 | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
