1999 BMW Z8 vs. 1989 Ford Laser
To start off, 1999 BMW Z8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Laser would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z8 (400 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1989 Ford Laser. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z8 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1989 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW Z8 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 1999 BMW Z8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1999 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Laser. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW Z8 | 1989 Ford Laser | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z8 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4939 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2510 mm |
