1981-1984 Ford Laser | C! Magazine

When one wanted a subcompact (or bantam) car back in the early 1980s, the usual suspects were the Toyota Corolla or Mitsubishi Lancer. Yet those who really wanted to be different had another choice in the form of the Ford Laser.

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Sold by Ford Philippines beginning in 1981 all the way to 1984, the Laser was more than just an alternative to the Japanese players. It did things differently, making it an interesting choice for those that took the plunge.

For one, it was offered as a four-door sedan and a three- and five-door hatchback. This not only made it a bit more versatile but gave it a bit of sporting flair, especially in hatch trim.

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Then there was the drivetrain, which was front-wheel drive. This was opposed to the rear-wheel drive Lancers and Corollas of the time. The engines, too, were of the 1.3- and 1.5-liter carburetor variety. And Ford even boasted of its Breakerless ignition tech that was supposedly cutting edge for the day.

Essentially a rebadged Mazda 323/Familia, the Ford Laser also had a different orientation for things like hood openings and light swtichgear. The hood was front hinged, while the lights were a dial type, unlike the usual stalks on other Japanese cars.

But even if the Laser did things differently, many car enthusiasts loved their Ford Lasers. This, notwithstanding the occasional problems that came with some units. (which is for another day and another story.

It may have been the first-generation of a model line that did return later on as the Ford Lynx and Mazda 323/Familia. But to us old enough to remember, it will always be that subcompact that dared to be different.

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