2004 Dodge Intrepid vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel

To start off, 2004 Dodge Intrepid is newer by 23 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 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Intrepid (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 325 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, 2004 Dodge Intrepid, 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 Dodge Intrepid (258 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (222 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel. 2004 Dodge Intrepid has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Dodge Intrepid 1981 Nissan Laurel
Make Dodge Nissan
Model Intrepid Laurel
Year Released 2004 1981
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2736 cc 2753 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 258 Nm 222 Nm
Torque RPM 4850 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1245 kg
Vehicle Length 5180 mm 4060 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2410 mm