1979 Datsun Laurel vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 317 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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun Laurel | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Datsun | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
