1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2009 Toyota Yaris
To start off, 2009 Toyota Yaris 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Yaris. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Yaris. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Yaris weights approximately 142 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
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 Toyota Yaris, 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Yaris. (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Yaris. 2009 Toyota Yaris 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 Toyota Yaris will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2009 Toyota Yaris | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | Laurel | Yaris |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 42 L |
