1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 30 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 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 512 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.
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, 2009 Lexus IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2009 Lexus IS 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. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Datsun | Lexus |
| Model | Laurel | IS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 4969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 503 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 11.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
