1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara 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, 1979 Datsun Laurel (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 172 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
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 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, 1999 Citroen Xsara (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Citroen | Datsun |
| Model | Xsara | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1911 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
