1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2005 Toyota Previa
To start off, 2005 Toyota Previa 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 Toyota Previa (160 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Previa should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Previa weights approximately 337 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 Toyota Previa, 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 Toyota Previa (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota Previa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2005 Toyota Previa | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | Laurel | Previa |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2358 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2900 mm |
