1997 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1997 Ford Explorer 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Explorer (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1090 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.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
