1980 Ford Laser vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 28 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 2,771 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 560 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.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Laser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Laser | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2771 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |
