1985 Ford Laser vs. 1978 Triumph Dolomite
To start off, 1985 Ford Laser is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Triumph Dolomite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Triumph Dolomite would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Laser (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. (57 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Triumph Dolomite weights approximately 150 kg more than 1985 Ford Laser.
Because 1978 Triumph Dolomite 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 1978 Triumph Dolomite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1985 Ford Laser (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph Dolomite. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph Dolomite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Laser | 1978 Triumph Dolomite | |
| Make | Ford | Triumph |
| Model | Laser | Dolomite |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2460 mm |
