1983 Ford Laser vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 22 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1983 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 460 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.
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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Laser. (121 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Laser | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Laser | ION |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2630 mm |
