2009 Mazda CX-9 vs. 1980 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 3,727 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (268 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9, 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 CX-9 (269 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Laurel. (148 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Laurel. 2009 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1980 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1980 Nissan Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda CX-9 | 1980 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | CX-9 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3727 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 269 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2680 mm |
