1981 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 23 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (160 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 656 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.
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, 2004 Volvo S60 (231 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Rabbit | S60 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
