1971 Austin 1800 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Austin 1800 (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Austin 1800 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 1800 weights approximately 384 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 Austin 1800 (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Austin 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
