1983 Chrysler Laser vs. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Chrysler Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Chrysler Laser would be higher. At 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Chrysler Laser (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Chrysler Laser should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 375 kg more than 1983 Chrysler Laser.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Chrysler Laser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1983 Chrysler Laser (217 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 Chrysler Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Chrysler Laser | 1998 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
