1988 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1988 Ford Escort is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Escort (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Escort weights approximately 220 kg more than 1976 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 Ford Escort (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2410 mm |
