1987 Ford Laser vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1987 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 318 kg more than 1987 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, 1998 Ford Focus (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Laser | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Laser | Focus |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1118 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
