2009 Ford Focus vs. 1989 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 295 kg more than 1989 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1989 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Focus | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
