2003 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 2003 Citroen Xsara is newer by 24 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, 2003 Citroen Xsara (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 133 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, 2003 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, 2003 Citroen Xsara (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2003 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2003 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Datsun Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
Make | Citroen | Datsun |
Model | Xsara | Laurel |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2393 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 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 | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |