2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,424 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 755 kg more than 1983 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 1713 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
