1992 BMW 538 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1992 BMW 538 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 538 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 538 (341 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 538 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 538 weights approximately 985 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 538 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 1992 BMW 538. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1992 BMW 538 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 538 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 538 | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 538 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
