1994 Holden Nova vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1994 Holden Nova 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 1,455 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Holden Nova (81 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Holden Nova weights approximately 205 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 Holden Nova (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Holden Nova 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 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1994 Holden Nova 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 Holden Nova | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
