1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 97 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Ford Tempo 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Tempo Rabbit
Year Released 1989 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2307 cc 2480 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 96 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 2200 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 19.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1150 kg 1247 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2580 mm