2004 Renault Megane vs. 1980 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,770 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Laurel. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 180 kg more than 1980 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Nissan Laurel. (148 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Nissan Laurel. 1980 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2004 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2004 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Renault Megane | 1980 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Renault | Nissan |
| Model | Megane | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2680 mm |
