1985 Ford Laser vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 28 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1985 Ford Laser. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 623 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Laser. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Laser. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Laser | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 822 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2651 mm |
