1996 Audi A3 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1984 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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
