1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2008 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2008 Ford Fusion is newer by 29 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Ford Fusion. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 11 kg more than 2008 Ford Fusion. 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, 2008 Ford Fusion, 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, 2008 Ford Fusion (204 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2008 Ford Fusion | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | Laurel | Fusion |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1177 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
