1998 Ford Contour vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 397 kg more than 1983 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1713 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |