1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2009 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2009 Subaru Forester 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 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Forester (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Subaru Forester weights approximately 282 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 2009 Subaru Forester 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, 2009 Subaru Forester 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, 2009 Subaru Forester (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2009 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Datsun | Subaru |
| Model | Laurel | Forester |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
