1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 27 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (173 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 380 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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Laurel | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Laurel | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 173 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
