2005 Ford Laser vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Ford Laser is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 9 more horse power than 2005 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 60 kg more than 2005 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Laser. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Laser. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Laser has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Laser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Laser | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
