1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster 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, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2010 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
