1985 Ford Laser vs. 2007 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2007 Dodge Nitro is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1985 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1068 kg more than 1985 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Ford Laser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Laser. 2007 Dodge Nitro has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Laser | 2007 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Laser | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2770 mm |
