1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 165 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 Passat 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 Passat 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 Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Passat |
| 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 | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
