1980 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2011 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Altima is newer by 31 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Altima weights approximately 588 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, 2011 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2011 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Nissan |
| Model | Rabbit | Altima |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1457 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2675 mm |
