1973 De Tomaso Pantera vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 De Tomaso Pantera weights approximately 505 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 De Tomaso Pantera 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 De Tomaso Pantera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 De Tomaso Pantera (525 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 403 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1973 De Tomaso Pantera has manual transmission. 1973 De Tomaso Pantera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 De Tomaso Pantera | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | De Tomaso | Volkswagen |
Model | Pantera | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 350 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 525 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |