2004 Ford Focus vs. 1973 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 127 kg more than 1973 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (197 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (169 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1973 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Focus | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
