1981 Ford Laser vs. 1988 Jaguar XJS

To start off, 1988 Jaguar XJS is newer by 7 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 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Jaguar XJS (225 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 838 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 1988 Jaguar XJS 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 1988 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1988 Jaguar XJS (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Ford Laser 1988 Jaguar XJS
Make Ford Jaguar
Model Laser XJS
Year Released 1981 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1490 cc 3590 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 85 HP 225 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 120 Nm 325 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 792 kg 1630 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1220 mm
Wheelbase Size 2370 mm 2600 mm