2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 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 1,952 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 122 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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, 1981 Nissan Laurel (163 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1981 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 3 | Laurel |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1952 cc |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 102 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 163 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1070 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 |