1962 Mercedes-Benz SE vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE (118 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 505 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 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE 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 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE. 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, 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE has manual transmission. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SE | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
