1982 Ford Laser vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1982 Ford Laser. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 590 kg more than 1982 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Laser. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1982 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1982 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Ford Laser | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Laser | Beetle |
Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 120 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2537 mm |