1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1996 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 1996 Skoda Octavia 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Skoda Octavia. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1996 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 97 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, 1996 Skoda Octavia, 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 Skoda Octavia (200 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1996 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Datsun | Skoda |
| Model | Laurel | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
