1989 BMW 316 vs. 1980 Ford Laser
To start off, 1989 BMW 316 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 316 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1980 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 316 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 1989 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1989 BMW 316 (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
1989 BMW 316 | 1980 Ford Laser | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 316 | Laser |
Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 120 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2370 mm |