2002 Acura RSX vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel

To start off, 2002 Acura RSX is newer by 21 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), 2002 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RSX (158 HP) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura RSX weights approximately 117 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, 2002 Acura RSX, 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, 2002 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel. 1981 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2002 Acura RSX has manual transmission. 2002 Acura RSX 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:

2002 Acura RSX 1981 Nissan Laurel
Make Acura Nissan
Model RSX Laurel
Year Released 2002 1981
Body Type Coupe 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 158 HP 60 HP
Torque 191 Nm 123 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1222 kg 1105 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4060 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2410 mm