2003 Ford Laser vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2003 Ford Laser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 265 weights approximately 289 kg more than 2003 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 265 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 1978 Volvo 265. 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, 1978 Volvo 265 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Laser. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Laser | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Laser | 265 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |
