1980 Ford Laser vs. 2009 Saleen S7
To start off, 2009 Saleen S7 is newer by 29 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 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 656 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saleen S7 weights approximately 412 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 2009 Saleen S7 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 2009 Saleen S7. 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, 2009 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 826 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Laser | 2009 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Ford | Saleen |
| Model | Laser | S7 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2692 mm |
