1997 Renault Spider vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1997 Renault Spider is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Spider (140 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Spider should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Spider weights approximately 185 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Renault Spider 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 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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 Renault Spider (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Renault Spider | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
Model | Spider | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |