2003 Ford Laser vs. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Laser would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 2003 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Laser weights approximately 38 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (652 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 507 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Laser. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Laser | 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Laser | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 652 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |
