1980 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1035 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
