1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 35 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 320 kg more than 2008 Opel Vectra.
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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Datsun | Opel |
| Model | Laurel | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 9.6 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 | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
