1952 Porsche 356 vs. 1981 Ford Laser
To start off, 1981 Ford Laser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Laser (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Laser weights approximately 12 kg more than 1952 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 Porsche 356 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 1952 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Laser, 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, 1981 Ford Laser (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Porsche 356. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Porsche 356. 1981 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1952 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1952 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Porsche 356 | 1981 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Porsche | Ford |
| Model | 356 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 792 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2370 mm |
