1981 Ford Laser vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 558 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Laser | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Laser | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 120 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |