1971 Ford GT 40 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 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Ford GT 40 weights approximately 155 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 Ford GT 40 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 Ford GT 40. 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, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit (111 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford GT 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford GT 40 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | GT 40 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 980 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2410 mm |
