1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2009 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 36 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 84 kg more than 2009 Dodge Dakota.
Because 2009 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Datsun Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel. 2009 Dodge Dakota 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. 2009 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2009 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Datsun | Dodge |
| Model | Laurel | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 83 L |
