1997 Dodge Viper vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1997 Dodge Viper is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (415 HP) has 343 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 661 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Dodge Viper 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 1997 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1997 Dodge Viper (664 Nm) has 542 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Viper | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viper | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 664 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
