1981 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 466 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rabbit | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1455 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
