1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 75 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 1981 Nissan Laurel (222 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Nissan |
| Model | Eclipse | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
