1951 Austin A 70 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A 70 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1951 Austin A 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (72 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1951 Austin A 70. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Austin A 70 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 1951 Austin A 70 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 1951 Austin A 70. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A 70 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 70 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
