1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1997 Lancia K
To start off, 1997 Lancia K 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lancia K is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia K (201 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia K should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia K weights approximately 327 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 Lancia K, 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, 1997 Lancia K (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia K will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1997 Lancia K has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lancia K will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1997 Lancia K | |
| Make | Datsun | Lancia |
| Model | Laurel | K |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 72.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
