1998 Ford Laser vs. 1978 Mazda 929
To start off, 1998 Ford Laser is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Laser (128 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 50 kg more than 1978 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 929 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 1978 Mazda 929. 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 (174 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 1978 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Laser | 929 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
