1955 Abarth 208 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 208 would be higher. At 1,457 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1955 Abarth 208. (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1955 Abarth 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Abarth 208 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 1955 Abarth 208 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 1955 Abarth 208. 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. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1955 Abarth 208 has manual transmission. 1955 Abarth 208 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Abarth 208 | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 208 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1088 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 65 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2410 mm |