1994 Ford Probe vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1994 Ford Probe is newer by 13 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Ford Probe (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Probe weights approximately 426 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, 1994 Ford Probe (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1994 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1994 Ford Probe 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:
1994 Ford Probe | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Probe | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1994 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |