1991 Opel Astra vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1991 Opel Astra 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Opel Astra (82 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Opel Astra weights approximately 70 kg more than 1980 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 Opel Astra (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Opel Astra | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2410 mm |
