1952 BMW 340 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 BMW 340 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 340 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1952 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 340 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 1952 BMW 340 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 BMW 340. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 BMW 340 | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 340 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2410 mm |
