1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Mazda RX-7 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 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1983 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1983 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Mazda RX-7 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1983 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |