1981 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2010 Lexus ES
To start off, 2010 Lexus ES is newer by 29 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus ES (272 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus ES weights approximately 825 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, 2010 Lexus ES (344 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2010 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2010 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Lexus |
| Model | Rabbit | ES |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1455 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2776 mm |
