1982 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 26 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 460 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 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Rabbit | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2500 mm |
