2003 Opel Astra vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 345 kg more than 1976 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, 2003 Opel Astra (204 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
