1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2008 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2008 Ford Ranger 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 2,970 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ranger (148 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 81 kg more than 2008 Ford Ranger.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ranger (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | Laurel | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
