1983 Ford Laser vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1983 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 320 kg more than 1983 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Laser. (121 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Laser | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Laser | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2270 mm |
