1971 Fiat 124 vs. 1984 Ford Laser
To start off, 1984 Ford Laser is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Ford Laser (85 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Fiat 124 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1984 Ford Laser.
Because 1971 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1984 Ford Laser (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1984 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124. 1984 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1971 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1971 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 124 | 1984 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 124 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2370 mm |
