1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2003 Holden Astra is newer by 30 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 4 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 625 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. 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, 2003 Holden Astra, 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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Datsun | Holden |
| Model | Laurel | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
