1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2005 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 310 kg more than 2005 Lotus Exige.
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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Exige. (174 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Exige. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2005 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2005 Lotus Exige 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 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Datsun | Lotus |
| Model | Laurel | Exige |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
