1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 1983 Volvo 240 is newer by 10 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 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun Laurel (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (112 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 475 kg more than 1983 Volvo 240. 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, 1983 Volvo 240 (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volvo |
| Model | Laurel | 240 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2660 mm |
