1999 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 20 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 27 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, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Datsun |
| Model | Cavalier | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
