2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 42 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 Nissan 350Z, 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 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (163 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan 350Z | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Nissan | Nissan |
| Model | 350Z | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1112 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
