1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,501 cc, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
