1985 Ford Laser vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1985 Ford Laser. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 378 kg more than 1985 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, 1998 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Laser. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Laser | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Laser | Astra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 822 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
