1989 Chevrolet Corsica vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1989 Chevrolet Corsica is newer by 8 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Chevrolet Corsica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chevrolet Corsica (90 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet Corsica should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Chevrolet Corsica weights approximately 335 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, 1989 Chevrolet Corsica (146 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet Corsica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1989 Chevrolet Corsica has manual transmission. 1989 Chevrolet Corsica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chevrolet Corsica | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corsica | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
