1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1992 Ford Probe
To start off, 1992 Ford Probe is newer by 13 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 5 more horse power than 1992 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Ford Probe weights approximately 62 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
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, 1992 Ford Probe, 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, 1992 Ford Probe (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1992 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | Laurel | Probe |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
