1958 Jensen 541 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Jensen 541 (129 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Jensen 541 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Jensen 541 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Jensen 541 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 1958 Jensen 541. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1958 Jensen 541 (311 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1958 Jensen 541 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Jensen 541 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
Model | 541 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1958 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 311 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |