2002 AC Cobra vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2002 AC Cobra is newer by 22 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 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 288 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 AC Cobra weights approximately 250 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 2002 AC Cobra 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 2002 AC Cobra. 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, 2002 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2002 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 2002 AC Cobra 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:

2002 AC Cobra 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make AC Volkswagen
Model Cobra Rabbit
Year Released 2002 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3506 cc 1457 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 350 HP 62 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 400 Nm 104 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1060 kg 810 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1210 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2300 mm 2410 mm