1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2011 Dodge Caliber
To start off, 2011 Dodge Caliber 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 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Caliber (172 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 220 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, 2011 Dodge Caliber, 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 Dodge Caliber (223 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2011 Dodge Caliber | |
| Make | Datsun | Dodge |
| Model | Laurel | Caliber |
| 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 | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4415 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1534 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2634 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 51 L |
