1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1986 Fiat Croma
To start off, 1986 Fiat Croma is newer by 7 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, 1986 Fiat Croma (154 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 8 kg more than 1986 Fiat Croma.
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, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 1986 Fiat Croma (235 Nm @ 2350 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1986 Fiat Croma | |
| Make | Datsun | Fiat |
| Model | Laurel | Croma |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 8.0:1 |
| 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 | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2550 mm |
