1976 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 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 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 501 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rabbit | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
