1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1980 Saab 900 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun Laurel (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 595 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Datsun 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 1973 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900, 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, 1973 Datsun Laurel (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Datsun | Saab |
| Model | Laurel | 900 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
