2008 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Ford Laser
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 10 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Laser (128 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 64 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka. 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, 1998 Ford Laser (174 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1998 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Laser |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
