1981 Ford Laser vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 28 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1981 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 1518 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2580 mm |
