1999 Nissan R 390 GT1 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1999 Nissan R 390 GT1 is newer by 19 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. In terms of performance, 1999 Nissan R 390 GT1 (544 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 482 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Nissan R 390 GT1 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Nissan R 390 GT1 weights approximately 288 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 1999 Nissan R 390 GT1 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 Nissan R 390 GT1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Nissan R 390 GT1 (637 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 533 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Nissan R 390 GT1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Nissan R 390 GT1 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | R 390 GT1 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 544 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 637 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
