2003 BMW Z4 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2003 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW Z4 (227 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW Z4 weights approximately 480 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.
Because 2003 BMW Z4 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 2003 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2003 BMW Z4 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW Z4 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | Z4 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 291 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |