1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 1998 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 1998 Saab 05-Sep 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saab 05-Sep (149 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 290 kg more than 1998 Saab 05-Sep.
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 Saab 05-Sep, 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 Saab 05-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 1998 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Datsun | Saab |
| Model | Laurel | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 75 L |
