1981 Ford Laser vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 544 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser. 2005 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Laser | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
