1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2006 Honda Element
To start off, 2006 Honda Element is newer by 27 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, 2006 Honda Element (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Honda Element weights approximately 802 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 2006 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Honda Element (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2006 Honda Element | |
| Make | Datsun | Honda |
| Model | Laurel | Element |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
