1980 Ford Laser vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 32 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ford Laser (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (5 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 706 kg more than 1980 Ford Laser.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Ford Laser | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Laser | SLK |
Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1490 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 5 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 123 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1541 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2431 mm |