1991 BMW M12 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 11 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 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 1991 BMW M12 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 1991 BMW M12. 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M12 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
