2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1979 Datsun Laurel
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 447 kg more than 1979 Datsun Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Datsun 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 1979 Datsun Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2009 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun Laurel. (175 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun Laurel. 2009 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun Laurel has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun Laurel will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac DTS | 1979 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Cadillac | Datsun |
| Model | DTS | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
