1978 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 1494 kg more than 1978 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 Multivan (315 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2008 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rabbit | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1457 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 2304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |
