2003 Opel Speedster vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2003 Opel Speedster 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 Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Speedster (145 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Speedster weights approximately 81 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.
Because 2003 Opel Speedster 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 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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 Opel Speedster (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster 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 Speedster has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Speedster 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 Speedster | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speedster | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
