1962 Porsche 356 vs. 1980 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1980 Nissan Laurel is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Nissan Laurel (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1962 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 1962 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 282 kg more than 1962 Porsche 356. 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. 1980 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 1962 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1962 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Porsche 356 | 1980 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Porsche | Nissan |
| Model | 356 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 858 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2680 mm |
