1983 Ford Laser vs. 2012 Dodge Charger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Charger is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Laser would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Charger (292 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1983 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Charger should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Charger weights approximately 1023 kg more than 1983 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Dodge Charger 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 2012 Dodge Charger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2012 Dodge Charger (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Laser. (121 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Laser. 2012 Dodge Charger has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Dodge Charger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Laser | 2012 Dodge Charger | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Laser | Charger |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5077 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 3053 mm |
