1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1997 Proton Persona
To start off, 1997 Proton Persona is newer by 24 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 50 more horse power than 1997 Proton Persona. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton Persona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 815 kg more than 1997 Proton Persona. 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, 1997 Proton Persona, 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 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton Persona. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton Persona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1997 Proton Persona | |
| Make | Datsun | Proton |
| Model | Laurel | Persona |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
