1987 Ford Laser vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1987 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 538 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Laser | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Golf |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
