1981 Ford Laser vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 425 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 433 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 710 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Laser | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Laser | S |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1490 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 120 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 3170 mm |