1991 Audi 80 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 1991 Audi 80 is newer by 10 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Audi 80 (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Audi 80 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Audi 80 weights approximately 395 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, 1991 Audi 80 (168 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Audi 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1991 Audi 80 has manual transmission. 1991 Audi 80 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:

1991 Audi 80 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model 80 Rabbit
Year Released 1991 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1715 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 115 HP 72 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 168 Nm 122 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 86.4 mm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1240 kg 845 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2410 mm