1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 225 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 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
