1983 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 445 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rabbit | SLK |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1713 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
