1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1983 Ford Fiesta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 25 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
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, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2410 mm |
