1998 Suzuki Vitara vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Vitara 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Suzuki Vitara (79 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 186 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.
Because 1998 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Vitara (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Vitara | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitara | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
