1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2004 Honda Civic
To start off, 2004 Honda Civic is newer by 25 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 14 more horse power than 2004 Honda Civic. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 339 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Honda Civic (223 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2004 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2004 Honda Civic 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 | 2004 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | Laurel | Civic |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 86 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 | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
