2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2410 mm |
