1980 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 28 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 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 426 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.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 646 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Volkswagen Rabbit 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
Make Volkswagen Volkswagen
Model Rabbit Phaeton
Year Released 1980 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1457 cc 4921 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 10 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 62 HP 309 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 3750 RPM
Torque 104 Nm 750 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 810 kg 1236 kg
Vehicle Length 3950 mm 5180 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 3010 mm