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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 4800 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. 1981 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 20 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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 (222 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 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 | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | 3 | Laurel |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2753 cc |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 222 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 | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1245 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |