1982 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 1983 Volvo 240 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volvo 240 (122 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 240 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Volvo 240 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 1983 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1983 Volvo 240 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Rabbit | 240 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
