1988 Audi 90 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1988 Audi 90 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,994 cc (5 cylinders), 1988 Audi 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Audi 90 (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Audi 90 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Audi 90 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1981 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, 1988 Audi 90 (172 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Audi 90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Audi 90 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | 90 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
