1982 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 30 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1470 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 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton 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. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rabbit | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 2315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 5179 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3001 mm |
