1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1996 Opel Vectra 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 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Vectra (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 36 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 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, 1996 Opel Vectra, 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, 1996 Opel Vectra (230 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Datsun | Opel |
| Model | Laurel | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
