2008 Ford Focus vs. 1989 Ford Laser
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 19 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1989 Ford Laser. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 295 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.
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, 2008 Ford Focus (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Laser. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1989 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Laser |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
