1985 Ford Laser vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 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 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Laser (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 372 kg more than 1985 Ford 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Laser. (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Laser | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2510 mm |
