1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2004 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2004 Peugeot 406 is newer by 31 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 2,230 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Peugeot 406 (156 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 425 kg more than 2004 Peugeot 406.
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, 2004 Peugeot 406, 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, 2004 Peugeot 406 (205 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2004 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Datsun | Peugeot |
| Model | Laurel | 406 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2230 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3900 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 | 1350 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
