1987 Ford Laser vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1987 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 359 kg more than 1987 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Laser | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 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 | 800 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
