1981 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 1998 Dodge Ram is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,905 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (173 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1260 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram 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 1998 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1998 Dodge Ram (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
Make | Volkswagen | Dodge |
Model | Rabbit | Ram |
Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1455 cc | 3905 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 62 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 104 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 2070 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 2030 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 2030 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2790 mm |