1981 BMW 628 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 628. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 628 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 628 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 628 (181 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 628 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 628 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 628 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 BMW 628. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1981 BMW 628 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 628 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 628 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 628 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 628 | 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 628 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1981 | 1984 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2788 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 117 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |