1997 Ford Ka vs. 1980 Ford Laser
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 17 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 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ford Laser (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ka weights approximately 45 kg more than 1980 Ford Laser.
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, 1980 Ford Laser (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 1980 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Laser |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2370 mm |
