1979 Nissan Laurel vs. 2003 Scion xB
To start off, 2003 Scion xB is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,768 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Scion xB (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1979 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Scion xB should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Scion xB.
Because 1979 Nissan 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Scion xB, 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, 1979 Nissan Laurel (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Scion xB. (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Scion xB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Nissan Laurel | 2003 Scion xB | |
| Make | Nissan | Scion |
| Model | Laurel | xB |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1768 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
