1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 1973 Datsun Laurel is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 6,553 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Gran Torino should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 239 kg more than 1973 Datsun 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (403 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel. 1972 Ford Gran Torino has automatic transmission and 1973 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1973 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | Laurel | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 6553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 403 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 2014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
