2001 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 20 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Impala (200 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 727 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.
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 Chevrolet Impala (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2001 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2001 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Chevrolet Impala | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Impala | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 72 HP |
Torque | 305 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |