1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2001 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 28 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Hyundai Sonata (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 347 kg more than 2001 Hyundai Sonata.
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, 2001 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2001 Hyundai Sonata (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel. 2001 Hyundai Sonata 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. 2001 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2001 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Datsun | Hyundai |
| Model | Laurel | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
