2002 Ford Econovan vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Ford Econovan is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Econovan (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Econovan should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Econovan weights approximately 500 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Econovan 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 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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 Ford Econovan (138 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Econovan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Econovan | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Econovan | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2410 mm |
