2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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 1,689 cc, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 605 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (185 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Smart | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Type | electric | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
