1980 Aston Martin V8 Vantage vs. 1978 Volkswagen 181
To start off, 1980 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen 181. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen 181 would be higher. At 5,340 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Aston Martin V8 Vantage weights approximately 1090 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen 181.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Aston Martin V8 Vantage | 1978 Volkswagen 181 | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Volkswagen |
| Model | V8 Vantage | 181 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5340 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 549 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
