2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1981 Ford Laser
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Laser would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (211 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 728 kg more than 1981 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Mustang 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 2004 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser. 1981 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Mustang | 1981 Ford Laser | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Mustang | Laser |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 211 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 120 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 792 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2370 mm |