1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1989 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1989 Nissan Laurel is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 42 kg more than 1989 Nissan 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1989 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | 280 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2680 mm |
