1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1981 GMC Suburban is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 GMC Suburban (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1045 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.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 GMC Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Datsun | GMC |
| Model | Laurel | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3300 mm |
