1971 Austin 3 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Austin 3 (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Austin 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 685 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 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. 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, 1971 Austin 3 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1971 Austin 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2410 mm |
