1981 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (203 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rabbit | C |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
