1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (165 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 95 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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 Citroen Xsara (193 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel. 1981 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 1998 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1998 Citroen Xsara 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:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Citroen | Nissan |
| Model | Xsara | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
