1981 Ford Laser vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 672 kg more than 1981 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Laser | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
