1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero (205 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 625 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 Mitsubishi Pajero 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 Mitsubishi Pajero 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 Mitsubishi Pajero (300 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1996 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Datsun | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Laurel | Pajero |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |
