1996 Nissan Sunny vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Nissan Sunny 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 1,713 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Sunny (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Sunny should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Sunny weights approximately 157 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.
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 Nissan Sunny (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Sunny will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Sunny | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sunny | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1713 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
