1971 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 4,140 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Holden Statesman (182 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Holden Statesman weights approximately 585 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 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. 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 Holden Statesman (356 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Holden Statesman | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Statesman | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4140 cc | 1713 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 356 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |
