1999 BMW 328 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1999 BMW 328 is newer by 18 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 328 (193 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 328 weights approximately 637 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.
Because 1999 BMW 328 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 328. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 328 (279 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1999 BMW 328 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 328 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 328 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 328 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 193 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 279 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 845 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 |