1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2009 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Toyota Corolla 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Corolla (133 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 701 kg more than 2009 Toyota Corolla.
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, 2009 Toyota Corolla, 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, 2009 Toyota Corolla (174 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Corolla will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel. 2009 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2009 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | Laurel | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
