Honestly the only way your going to see your investment pay off is to get a cold air intake, and maybe an exhaust.
Unfortunately, i don't think that its going to be easy finding these things prefabricated for a Ford Laser.
If i were you, i would take it to a trusted shop, have them check your timing, replace your spark plugs, check your tires (pressure wise), change your air filter, and change your oil with synthetic oil. These are definitely the most cost effective ways of increasing mileage on any vehicle.