2008 Fiat Croma vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2008 Fiat Croma 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Fiat Croma (146 HP) has 86 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Fiat Croma weights approximately 405 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, 2008 Fiat Croma, 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 Fiat Croma (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat Croma 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 Fiat Croma has manual transmission. 2008 Fiat Croma 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 Fiat Croma | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Fiat | Nissan |
| Model | Croma | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
