1996 Nissan Maxima vs. 1982 Ford Laser

To start off, 1996 Nissan Maxima 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1982 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 555 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.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Maxima (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Laser. 1982 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1996 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1996 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Nissan Maxima 1982 Ford Laser
Make Nissan Ford
Model Maxima Laser
Year Released 1996 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1489 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 85 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 178 Nm 120 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1345 kg 790 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2370 mm