1979 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2011 Ford Escape
To start off, 2011 Ford Escape is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Escape (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Escape weights approximately 688 kg more than 1979 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, 2011 Ford Escape (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2011 Ford Escape has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2011 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Rabbit | Escape |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1455 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1498 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2619 mm |
