2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (264 HP) has 204 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 28 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X.
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 Ford Taurus X, 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 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel. 2008 Ford Taurus X has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Taurus X | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2410 mm |
