1981 Ford Laser vs. 2011 Ford F-150
To start off, 2011 Ford F-150 is newer by 30 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford F-150 (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford F-150 weights approximately 1495 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 2011 Ford F-150 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 2011 Ford F-150. 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, 2011 Ford F-150 (376 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser. 2011 Ford F-150 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. 2011 Ford F-150 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Laser | 2011 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Laser | F-150 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 2287 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5888 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 3670 mm |
