1991 Plymouth Laser vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 1991 Plymouth Laser is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 242 (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1991 Plymouth Laser. (91 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 242 should accelerate faster than 1991 Plymouth Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1991 Plymouth Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Plymouth Laser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1986 Volvo 242 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Plymouth Laser. (142 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 242 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Plymouth Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Plymouth Laser | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volvo |
| Model | Laser | 242 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2660 mm |
