1999 BMW 323 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1999 BMW 323 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 323 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
