1971 Chrysler Charger vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Charger would be higher. At 4,341 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Chrysler Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chrysler Charger (200 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chrysler Charger should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chrysler Charger weights approximately 545 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Chrysler Charger 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 Chrysler Charger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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 Chrysler Charger (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Chrysler Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chrysler Charger | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Charger | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4341 cc | 1713 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
