2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Ford Laser
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2004 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2004 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Laser. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Laser. 2004 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-8 | Laser |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
