1980 Ford Laser vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 595 kg more than 1980 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Laser | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Laser | Astra |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2620 mm |
