2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1980 Ford Laser
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 251 kg more than 1980 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser. 1980 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1980 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Laser |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2370 mm |
