1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2011 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu 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, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2011 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2011 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Datsun | Chevrolet |
| Model | Laurel | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 61 L |
