1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1997 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 1997 Dodge Caravan is newer by 18 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, 1997 Dodge Caravan (131 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 612 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, 1997 Dodge Caravan, 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Dodge Caravan. (174 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Dodge Caravan.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Datsun Laurel | 1997 Dodge Caravan | |
Make | Datsun | Dodge |
Model | Laurel | Caravan |
Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 131 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 174 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1960 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2880 mm |