2002 Saab 05-Sep vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saab 05-Sep (148 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 675 kg more than 1978 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 Saab 05-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2002 Saab 05-Sep has manual transmission. 2002 Saab 05-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Saab 05-Sep | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 05-Sep | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
