1996 Nissan Laurel vs. 2001 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Vibe (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 128 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Vibe.
Because 1996 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 1996 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Vibe, 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, 2001 Pontiac Vibe (177 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Laurel. 1996 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Vibe has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Vibe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Laurel | 2001 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Nissan | Pontiac |
| Model | Laurel | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
