1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1973 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1973 Datsun Laurel is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,658 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 924 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
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, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1973 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Datsun |
| Model | 100 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 60 L |
