1989 Ford Laser vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (264 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1989 Ford Laser. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 760 kg more than 1989 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 469 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Laser. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Laser. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Laser | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laser | CLS |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2875 mm |
