1998 Ford Laser vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 14 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Toyota Matrix (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser. 2012 Toyota Matrix 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. 2012 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Laser | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 50 L |
