1981 Ford Laser vs. 1968 Mazda R-100

To start off, 1981 Ford Laser is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mazda R-100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mazda R-100 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1968 Mazda R-100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mazda R-100 (110 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mazda R-100 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mazda R-100 weights approximately 13 kg more than 1981 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1968 Mazda R-100 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 1968 Mazda R-100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1968 Mazda R-100 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1968 Mazda R-100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Ford Laser 1968 Mazda R-100
Make Ford Mazda
Model Laser R-100
Year Released 1981 1968
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1490 cc 1963 cc
Engine Type in-line dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 85 HP 110 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 120 Nm 135 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 792 kg 805 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 3840 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1490 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2370 mm 2270 mm