1982 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 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 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 480 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.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rabbit | A |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
