1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1989 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1989 Holden Commodore 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Commodore (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Commodore weights approximately 125 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, 1989 Holden Commodore (292 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 1989 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1989 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Datsun Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1989 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Datsun | Holden |
| Model | Laurel | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2740 mm |
