1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1996 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1996 Honda S-MX is newer by 17 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, 1996 Honda S-MX (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Honda S-MX weights approximately 142 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.
Because 1996 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1996 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | Laurel | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
