1976 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 453 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rabbit | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
