1998 BMW 316 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 316 (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1998 BMW 316 (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 316 | 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 316 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1998 | 1984 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 117 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |