1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2003 Honda Civic
To start off, 2003 Honda Civic 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 5 more horse power than 2003 Honda Civic. (108 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2003 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 98 kg more than 2003 Honda Civic. 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 Honda Civic, 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Honda Civic. (135 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2003 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | Laurel | Civic |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
