1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 2012 Scion xB
To start off, 2012 Scion xB is newer by 31 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion xB (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion xB should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Scion xB weights approximately 163 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, 2012 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, 2012 Scion xB (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (167 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Scion xB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Laurel | 2012 Scion xB | |
| Make | Nissan | Scion |
| Model | Laurel | xB |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4249 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2601 mm |
