1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,545 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 142 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 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2008 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | Laurel | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3545 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 73 L |
