1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1998 Rover 75
To start off, 1998 Rover 75 is newer by 25 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 8 more horse power than 1998 Rover 75. (116 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1998 Rover 75. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 290 kg more than 1998 Rover 75. 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, 1998 Rover 75, 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, 1998 Rover 75 (260 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Rover 75 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1998 Rover 75 | |
| Make | Datsun | Rover |
| Model | Laurel | 75 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| 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 | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 66 L |
