1998 Opel Meriva vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 540 kg more than 1981 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 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Meriva will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Opel Meriva | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
Model | Meriva | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 99 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |