1984 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 486 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (117 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rabbit | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
