2004 Citroen C2 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2004 Citroen C2 is newer by 23 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 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen C2 (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C2 weights approximately 238 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.
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, 2004 Citroen C2 (150 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen C2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C2 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C2 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1083 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2410 mm |
