1985 Chrysler Laser vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 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 2,212 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Chrysler Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Chrysler Laser (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (91 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Chrysler Laser should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 95 kg more than 1985 Chrysler 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Chrysler Laser. (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Chrysler Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Chrysler Laser | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2212 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
