2001 Acura RL vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 Acura RL is newer by 21 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. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 865 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.
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, 2001 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Acura | Volkswagen |
| Model | RL | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2410 mm |
