1959 Ford Fairlane vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Ford Fairlane (168 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 1249 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 1959 Ford Fairlane 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 1959 Ford Fairlane. 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:
1959 Ford Fairlane | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Fairlane | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1959 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5769 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 2094 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 3950 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2410 mm |