1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2004 Ford Laser
To start off, 2004 Ford Laser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2004 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Laser weights approximately 155 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 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 1978 Mazda RX-2. 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, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Laser. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-2 | 2004 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-2 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2620 mm |
