2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1989 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan Laurel (202 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 155 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 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, 1989 Nissan Laurel (264 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1989 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. 1989 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1989 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1996 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 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 | 1225 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
