2004 Jensen SV-8 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2004 Jensen SV-8 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Jensen SV-8 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 2004 Jensen SV-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2004 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Jensen SV-8 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Jensen | Volkswagen |
| Model | SV-8 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
