1989 Nissan Laurel vs. 1978 Volkswagen Citi

To start off, 1989 Nissan Laurel is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Citi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Citi would be higher. At 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Citi (94 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Citi should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 222 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Citi.

Because 1989 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 1989 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Citi, 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, 1978 Volkswagen Citi (150 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Volkswagen Citi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Nissan Laurel 1978 Volkswagen Citi
Make Nissan Volkswagen
Model Laurel Citi
Year Released 1989 1978
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1809 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 94 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 142 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 948 kg
Vehicle Length 4700 mm 3820 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2410 mm