1995 Saturn SL vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1995 Saturn SL is newer by 15 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Saturn SL weights approximately 245 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, 1995 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Saturn SL | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
