1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1980 Ford Laser
To start off, 1980 Ford Laser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 840 kg more than 1980 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser. 1980 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1980 Ford Laser | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | 300 | Laser |
Year Released | 1979 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 120 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2370 mm |