2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1994 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1994 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1994 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1994 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2730 mm |
