2002 Renault Megane vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Renault Megane 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Megane (104 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Megane weights approximately 455 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.
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 Renault Megane (148 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Megane 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 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2002 Renault Megane 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 Renault Megane | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
