1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1979 Datsun Laurel is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 408 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Datsun | Pontiac |
| Model | Laurel | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
