1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 39 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 72 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
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 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
