1949 MG TD vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 MG TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 MG TD would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1949 MG TD. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1949 MG TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 24 kg more than 1949 MG TD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 MG TD 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 1949 MG TD. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 MG TD. (87 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 MG TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 MG TD | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | TD | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1250 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2410 mm |
