2006 BMW 523 vs. 1989 Ford Laser

To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1989 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 832 kg more than 1989 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Laser. 1989 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 523 1989 Ford Laser
Make BMW Ford
Model 523 Laser
Year Released 2006 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1294 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 66 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 94 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1632 kg 800 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2410 mm