1998 BMW 328 vs. 1980 Ford Laser

To start off, 1998 BMW 328 is newer by 18 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 328 (191 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 328 weights approximately 795 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 1998 BMW 328 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 1998 BMW 328. 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, 1998 BMW 328 (280 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser. 1980 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 328 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 328 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 328 1980 Ford Laser
Make BMW Ford
Model 328 Laser
Year Released 1998 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2793 cc 1490 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 191 HP 94 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 123 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 835 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2370 mm