1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta
To start off, 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta is newer by 19 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta (321 HP) has 208 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta weights approximately 212 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta (426 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1998 De Tomaso Mangusta | |
| Make | Datsun | De Tomaso |
| Model | Laurel | Mangusta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 321 HP |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 426 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
