1998 Ford Focus vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 18 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 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 434 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, 1998 Ford Focus (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Focus | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |