1974 Holden Statesman vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,297 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Holden Statesman (133 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Holden Statesman weights approximately 535 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 1974 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 1974 Holden Statesman. 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, 1974 Holden Statesman (263 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Holden Statesman | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
Model | Statesman | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3297 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 133 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 263 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 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 |