1981 Ford Laser vs. 2012 Mazda CX-9

To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 31 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), 2012 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 1171 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.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser. 2012 Mazda CX-9 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. 2012 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Ford Laser 2012 Mazda CX-9
Make Ford Mazda
Model Laser CX-9
Year Released 1981 2012
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 273 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6250 RPM
Torque 120 Nm 366 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Vehicle Weight 792 kg 1963 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 5085 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1935 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1727 mm
Wheelbase Size 2370 mm 2875 mm