1981 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 32 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 617 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, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze 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. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2013 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Rabbit | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1455 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2685 mm |
