1980 Ford Laser vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 665 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Laser | 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laser | CLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2720 mm |
