1998 Chrysler Viper vs. 1984 Ford Laser
To start off, 1998 Chrysler Viper is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Laser would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 304 more horse power than 1984 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 800 kg more than 1984 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Chrysler Viper 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 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 501 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Laser. 1984 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1998 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1998 Chrysler Viper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler Viper | 1984 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Viper | Laser |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 621 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2370 mm |
