1981 Ford Laser vs. 2006 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2006 Mercury Mariner is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,262 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercury Mariner (153 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 1133 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 2006 Mercury Mariner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Laser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercury Mariner (206 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Laser | 2006 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Laser | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2262 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2630 mm |
