1989 Ford Capri vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1989 Ford Capri is newer by 13 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Capri (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Capri weights approximately 287 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, 1989 Ford Capri (183 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Capri | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Capri | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
