1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 33 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 457 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 9.7 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 | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
