1984 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 29 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 359 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 940 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.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 583 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rabbit | SL |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4612 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2585 mm |
