1998 Buick Century vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1998 Buick Century is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Century weights approximately 332 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 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 1979 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick Century, 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, 1998 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1998 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Century | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Century | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
