2003 BMW 520 vs. 1987 Ford Laser

To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1987 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 900 kg more than 1987 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 BMW 520 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 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Laser. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 520 1987 Ford Laser
Make BMW Ford
Model 520 Laser
Year Released 2003 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1296 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 167 HP 66 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 94 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1700 kg 800 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm