1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2009 Mazda Tribute
To start off, 2009 Mazda Tribute 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 2,483 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda Tribute (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 63 kg more than 2009 Mazda Tribute.
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, 2009 Mazda Tribute, 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, 2009 Mazda Tribute (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2009 Mazda Tribute 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 Mazda Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2009 Mazda Tribute | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | Laurel | Tribute |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2483 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
