1989 Plymouth Laser vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Plymouth Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Plymouth Laser would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Plymouth Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1989 Plymouth Laser. (133 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1989 Plymouth Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 17 kg more than 1989 Plymouth 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Plymouth Laser. (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Plymouth Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Plymouth Laser | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2580 mm |
