1976 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 27 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 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 630 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Rabbit | V50 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
