1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1989 Volvo 740
To start off, 1989 Volvo 740 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, 1989 Volvo 740 (155 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 740 weights approximately 187 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 Volvo 740 (203 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm). This means 1989 Volvo 740 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 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 740 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 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Datsun | Volvo |
| Model | Laurel | 740 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 155 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 80 mm |
| 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 | 1372 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2780 mm |
