1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 905 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (179 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
Model | A | Laurel |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1898 cc | 2393 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 179 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1145 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |