1995 Chrysler Viper vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1995 Chrysler Viper is newer by 14 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1995 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 317 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 745 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.
Because 1995 Chrysler Viper 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 1995 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1995 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 498 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1995 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1995 Chrysler Viper 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:
| 1995 Chrysler Viper | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
