1980 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 24 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (63 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 295 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (125 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rabbit | Polo |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
