1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2010 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2010 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 31 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Buick LaCrosse (280 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 665 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 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, 2010 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2010 Buick LaCrosse (351 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2010 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2010 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2010 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Datsun | Buick |
| Model | Laurel | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| 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 | 1853 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2837 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
