1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Magna 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Magna (141 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 182 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.
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 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Magna (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2003 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Datsun | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Laurel | Magna |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
