1973 Nissan Skyline vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1981 Nissan Laurel is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Nissan Skyline (135 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 15 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Skyline, 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, 1973 Nissan Skyline (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1973 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Nissan Skyline | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | Skyline | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
