1980 Ford Laser vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster is newer by 26 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 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart Roadster weights approximately 180 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 2006 Smart Roadster 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 2006 Smart Roadster. 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, 2006 Smart Roadster (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Laser | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Laser | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2370 mm |
