1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 995 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1713 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 471 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |