2005 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 26 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 295 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (176 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 1979 Datsun Laurel has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider 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:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Datsun |
| Model | Spider | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
