2009 Nissan Altima vs. 1981 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima is newer by 28 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 2,487 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Altima weights approximately 259 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, 2009 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (220 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (163 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Nissan Altima | 1981 Nissan Laurel | |
Make | Nissan | Nissan |
Model | Altima | Laurel |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2487 cc | 1952 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 102 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 163 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1070 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2410 mm |