1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2003 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 24 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 325 kg more than 2003 Fiat Panda. 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, 2003 Fiat Panda, 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 (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Panda. (88 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Panda. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2003 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2003 Fiat Panda 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 | 2003 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Datsun | Fiat |
| Model | Laurel | Panda |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 35 L |
