2002 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,294 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP) has 140 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 1080 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Chevrolet Astro 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 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Astro | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astro | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4294 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
