1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 1992 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1992 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 140 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1992 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1992 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Laurel | 1992 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2480 mm |
