1989 Plymouth Laser vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1989 Plymouth Laser is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Plymouth Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Plymouth Laser (133 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Plymouth Laser should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Plymouth Laser weights approximately 365 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1989 Plymouth Laser (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1989 Plymouth Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Plymouth Laser | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
