1985 Chrysler Laser vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Chrysler Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Chrysler Laser would be higher. At 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (100 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1985 Chrysler Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Chrysler Laser weights approximately 73 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Chrysler Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Chrysler Laser | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | W12 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2540 mm |
