1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,198 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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 Mercedes-Benz 300 (310 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.

Compare all specifications:

1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model 300 Rabbit
Year Released 1991 1983
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3198 cc 1713 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 231 HP 64 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 116 Nm
Torque RPM 4100 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1900 kg 845 kg
Vehicle Length 5110 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3050 mm 2410 mm