2004 Acura TL vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 2004 Acura TL is newer by 25 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura TL (267 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura TL weights approximately 393 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, 2004 Acura TL, 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, 2004 Acura TL (323 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2004 Acura TL has manual transmission. 2004 Acura TL 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:
| 2004 Acura TL | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Acura | Datsun |
| Model | TL | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
