1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2005 Ford Econovan
To start off, 2005 Ford Econovan is newer by 26 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 23 more horse power than 2005 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Econovan weights approximately 110 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Econovan. (138 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Econovan. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Econovan has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Econovan 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 | 2005 Ford Econovan | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | Laurel | Econovan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2210 mm |
