1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1989 Ford Laser
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1989 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 375 kg more than 1989 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 1989 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Golf | Laser |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |
