1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
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 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
