1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2009 Mercury Mountaineer
To start off, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercury Mountaineer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mountaineer should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
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 Mercury Mountaineer (254 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercury Mountaineer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2009 Mercury Mountaineer | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercury |
| Model | Laurel | Mountaineer |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
