1997 Ford Tracer vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 1997 Ford Tracer is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,455 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit (70 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1997 Ford Tracer. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Tracer weights approximately 155 kg more than 1979 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, 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Tracer. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Tracer. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Tracer has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Tracer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Ford Tracer 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Tracer Rabbit
Year Released 1997 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1321 cc 1455 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 67 HP 70 HP
Torque 101 Nm 102 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 965 kg 810 kg
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1420 mm