1998 Ford Laser vs. 1974 Austin Marina
To start off, 1998 Ford Laser is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Austin Marina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Laser (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 235 kg more than 1974 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Austin Marina 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 1974 Austin Marina. 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 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Marina. 1974 Austin Marina has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Austin Marina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 1974 Austin Marina | |
| Make | Ford | Austin |
| Model | Laser | Marina |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
