1973 Nissan Laurel vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (98 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 428 kg more than 1973 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Nissan 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Nissan Laurel | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
