1983 Ford Laser vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 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 6,207 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 433 more horse power than 1983 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1165 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 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Laser. (121 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Laser. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Laser | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laser | S |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 6207 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 3170 mm |
