1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 10 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 37 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 288 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (132 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | Laurel | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
