2008 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 290 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 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (310 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (167 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Nissan |
| Model | Lancer | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
