1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 162 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 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Golf |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
