1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2003 Toyota Echo
To start off, 2003 Toyota Echo 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 Toyota Echo (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Echo should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 175 kg more than 2003 Toyota Echo.
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 Toyota Echo, 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Echo. (157 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Echo. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2003 Toyota Echo has manual transmission. 2003 Toyota Echo 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 Toyota Echo | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | Laurel | Echo |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 84.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
