1998 Ford Laser vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 575 kg more than 1998 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laser | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
