1984 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP) has 154 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 715 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3837 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
