1980 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 33 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (180 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 832 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, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (244 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu 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. 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2013 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Rabbit | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1457 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1642 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2738 mm |
