1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, both 1979 Datsun 280 and 1979 Datsun Laurel were released in the same year (1979). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 17 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Datsun | Datsun |
| Model | 280 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
