1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel.

Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Datsun Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 367 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Datsun Laurel 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
Make Datsun Mercedes-Benz
Model Laurel R
Year Released 1979 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2393 cc 2987 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 113 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 3400 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 542 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 1600 RPM
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 5156 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1958 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1661 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 3216 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 80 L