1987 Ford Laser vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1987 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 355 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.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Laser | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Laser | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2340 mm |
