1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A 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 Mercedes-Benz A (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 260 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A 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 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laurel | A |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
