1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2008 Volkswagen Caddy
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Caddy 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 5 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Caddy. (108 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Caddy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Caddy weights approximately 501 kg more 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, 2008 Volkswagen Caddy, 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Caddy. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Caddy. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Caddy has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Caddy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Datsun Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2008 Volkswagen Caddy | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Caddy |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1686 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2690 mm |
