1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 420 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1985 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 219 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 329 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |