1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1981 Fiat 131
To start off, 1981 Fiat 131 is newer by 8 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 53 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 715 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. 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 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (110 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1981 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | Datsun | Fiat |
| Model | Laurel | 131 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1367 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 7.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2500 mm |
