1952 Austin A 70 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Austin A 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin A 70 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1952 Austin A 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Austin A 70 (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Austin A 70 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Austin A 70 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 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:
| 1952 Austin A 70 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 70 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 810 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 |
