1997 Audi A8 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1997 Audi A8 is newer by 17 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1980 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
