1973 Datsun Laurel vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 39 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 551 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
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, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Datsun Laurel | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | T5 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 13 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
