1977 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 1971 Volvo 140
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volvo 140 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volvo 140 (81 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volvo 140 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volvo 140 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 140 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 1971 Volvo 140. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1971 Volvo 140 (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Volvo 140 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | 1971 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Rabbit | 140 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1469 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
