1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1989 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1989 Ford Meteor is newer by 16 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 1989 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Meteor.
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, 1989 Ford Meteor, 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Meteor. 1989 Ford Meteor 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. 1989 Ford Meteor will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1989 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | Laurel | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
