1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2010 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Sharan 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 Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 609 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 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2010 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2010 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Datsun Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2010 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2919 mm |
