1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider
To start off, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider 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 3,494 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider (375 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider weights approximately 505 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 Ferrari 355 Spider (363 Nm) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm). This means 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider has manual transmission. 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Datsun Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 1998 Ferrari 355 Spider | |
| Make | Datsun | Ferrari |
| Model | Laurel | 355 Spider |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 375 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 110 L |
