1998 Ford Laser vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 504 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (168 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laser | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1649 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 62 L |
