1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 260 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 Volkswagen Golf (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Volkswagen Golf | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Golf | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2410 mm |