1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan 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, both vehicles can yield 113 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 527 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, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1997 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
