1996 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta (235 Nm) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2800 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
