2012 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1981 Ford Laser
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Laser would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1633 kg more than 1981 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Laser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1981 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | GL | Laser |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4700 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 459 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2425 kg | 792 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5098 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1989 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1839 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3076 mm | 2370 mm |
