1997 Dodge Dakota vs. 1983 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1997 Dodge Dakota is newer by 14 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 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Dakota (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 460 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 1997 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Nissan Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Dodge Dakota (196 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Laurel. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Laurel. 1983 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 1997 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 1997 Dodge Dakota will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Dakota | 1983 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Dodge | Nissan |
| Model | Dakota | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
