1980 Nissan Laurel vs. 2003 Dodge Neon

To start off, 2003 Dodge Neon is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Neon (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Laurel.

Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon, 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, 2003 Dodge Neon (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Laurel. (148 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Laurel. 2003 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 1980 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1980 Nissan Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Dodge Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Nissan Laurel 2003 Dodge Neon
Make Nissan Dodge
Model Laurel Neon
Year Released 1980 2003
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1770 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 97 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 152 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2650 mm