1987 Ford Laser vs. 2011 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2011 Dodge Dakota is newer by 24 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Dakota (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1987 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 1737 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 2011 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Ford Laser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Dakota 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, 2011 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Laser. 2011 Dodge Dakota has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Dodge Dakota will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Laser | 2011 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Laser | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 2537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3340 mm |
