2001 TVR Chimaera vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 TVR Chimaera 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 4,986 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 TVR Chimaera (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 190 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 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. 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 TVR Chimaera (484 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 388 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2001 TVR Chimaera has manual transmission. 2001 TVR Chimaera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 TVR Chimaera | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Chimaera | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4986 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 484 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2410 mm |
