1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 2008 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen T5 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1199 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
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 Volkswagen T5, 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (179 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Laurel | 2008 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laurel | T5 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |
