2003 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 25 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 500 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, 2003 Opel Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2003 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
