2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 87 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Laurel |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 60 HP |
Torque | 188 Nm | 123 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |