1976 Nissan Laurel vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1976 Nissan Laurel. (98 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 164 kg more than 1976 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Nissan Laurel. (169 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Nissan Laurel | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
