1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mazda RX-7 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 1988 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mazda RX-7 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1988 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 51 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |