1971 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Ford Laser
To start off, 2004 Ford Laser is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2004 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2004 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Laser. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Laser. 2004 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2004 Ford Laser | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2620 mm |
