1962 Mitsubishi 500 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mitsubishi 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mitsubishi 500 would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (72 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1962 Mitsubishi 500. (23 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1962 Mitsubishi 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 315 kg more than 1962 Mitsubishi 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1962 Mitsubishi 500 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 Mitsubishi 500. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mitsubishi 500. (35 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mitsubishi 500.

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