2002 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 385 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2084 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2410 mm |
