1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 1980 Volvo 343 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 54 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 785 kg more than 1980 Volvo 343. 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, 1973 Datsun Laurel (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343. 1980 Volvo 343 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. 1980 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volvo |
| Model | Laurel | 343 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
