1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 33 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), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Forte weights approximately 147 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, 2012 Kia Forte, 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, 2012 Kia Forte (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2012 Kia Forte 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. 2012 Kia Forte will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Datsun Laurel | 2012 Kia Forte | |
Make | Datsun | Kia |
Model | Laurel | Forte |
Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
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 | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4341 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1775 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1461 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2649 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |