2003 Ford Laser vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2003 Ford Laser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,404 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Laser (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Ford Laser (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (138 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Laser | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laser | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2404 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
