2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 27 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 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (285 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
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, 2008 Dodge Caliber, 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, 2008 Dodge Caliber (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (179 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel. 1981 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Caliber | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Dodge | Nissan |
Model | Caliber | Laurel |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2393 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 285 HP | 111 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 359 Nm | 179 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |