1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2004 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Samurai 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 51 more horse power than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 8 kg more than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2004 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Datsun | Suzuki |
| Model | Laurel | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1700 mm |
