1998 Ford Laser vs. 1973 Subaru R-2
To start off, 1998 Ford Laser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Subaru R-2 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Laser (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1973 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1973 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 685 kg more than 1973 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Subaru R-2 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 1973 Subaru R-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Ford Laser (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 1973 Subaru R-2 | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Laser | R-2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1930 mm |
