2004 Ford Fusion vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2004 Ford Fusion is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Fusion (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Fusion weights approximately 346 kg more than 1977 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 Ford Fusion (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Fusion has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Fusion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Fusion | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fusion | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1151 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
