1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 5,211 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (227 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 645 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant. 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, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (461 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Valiant | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5211 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.3 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
