2008 Ford Mustang vs. 1982 Ford Laser

To start off, 2008 Ford Mustang is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Laser would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1982 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Mustang weights approximately 925 kg more than 1982 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Ford Mustang 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 2008 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 2008 Ford Mustang (435 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Laser. 1982 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Mustang 1982 Ford Laser
Make Ford Ford
Model Mustang Laser
Year Released 2008 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4606 cc 1489 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 300 HP 85 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 435 Nm 120 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1715 kg 790 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2370 mm