1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2013 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2013 Nissan Maxima is newer by 34 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Maxima (286 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 433 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, 2013 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2013 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2013 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Datsun | Nissan |
| Model | Laurel | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4843 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1467 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2775 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
