1981 Ford Laser vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Laser (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 373 kg more than 1981 Ford Laser.
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 Polo (196 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Laser | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Polo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2470 mm |
