2006 Ford Fusion vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel

To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion is newer by 25 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Fusion (221 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 505 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, 2006 Ford Fusion, 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, 2006 Ford Fusion (278 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (167 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Ford Fusion 1981 Nissan Laurel
Make Ford Nissan
Model Fusion Laurel
Year Released 2006 1981
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2983 cc 2792 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 221 HP 85 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 278 Nm 167 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1715 kg 1210 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 4060 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm