2003 Mazda Tribute vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2003 Mazda Tribute is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Tribute (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 940 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute will offer significantly more control. 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 Mazda Tribute (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Tribute has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Tribute will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Tribute | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tribute | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
