1984 Ford Laser vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1984 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1984 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
1984 Ford Laser | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Laser | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1306 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 120 Nm | 211 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |