1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1992 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 648 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (250 Nm @ 6250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1992 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Caterham | Datsun |
| Model | Super 7 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2680 mm |
