1996 Ford Ranger vs. 1982 Ford Laser
To start off, 1996 Ford Ranger is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Ranger (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1982 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Ranger weights approximately 605 kg more than 1982 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Ford Ranger 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 1996 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1996 Ford Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ranger | 1982 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ranger | Laser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2370 mm |
