2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (167 HP) has 120 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 516 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 BMW Z3 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 2000 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW Z3 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
