1970 Volvo 145 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Volvo 145 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Volvo 145 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volvo 145 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volvo 145 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 1970 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1970 Volvo 145 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Volvo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Volvo 145 | 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 145 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1778 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
