1997 Proton Perdana vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1997 Proton Perdana 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 Proton Perdana (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Proton Perdana should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
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 Proton Perdana, 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 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton Perdana. (176 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton Perdana. 1981 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 1997 Proton Perdana has manual transmission. 1997 Proton Perdana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton Perdana | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Proton | Nissan |
| Model | Perdana | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
