2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Ford Laser
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 365 more horse power than 1998 Ford Laser. (128 HP @ 6150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 721 kg more than 1998 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 526 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Laser. (174 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SL | Laser |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
