1989 Ford Probe vs. 1983 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Probe (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 245 kg more than 1983 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe, 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, 1989 Ford Probe (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Laurel. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 1983 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Probe | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
