1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1984 Renault 18
To start off, 1984 Renault 18 is newer by 5 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 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 50 more horse power than 1984 Renault 18. (63 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1984 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 198 kg more than 1984 Renault 18. 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, 1984 Renault 18, 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 (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Renault 18. (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1984 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Datsun | Renault |
| Model | Laurel | 18 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
