1980 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 377 kg more than 1980 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Rabbit | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1457 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
