1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Datsun Laurel is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 285 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 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 1979 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Renault 12, 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 1973 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1973 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Datsun Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Datsun | Renault |
| Model | Laurel | 12 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 56 L |
