1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1994 Rover 400
To start off, 1994 Rover 400 is newer by 15 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 25 more horse power than 1994 Rover 400. (88 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1994 Rover 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Rover 400 weights approximately 52 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, 1994 Rover 400, 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, 1994 Rover 400 (180 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1994 Rover 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1994 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Datsun | Rover |
| Model | Laurel | 400 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |
