2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 975 kg more than 1979 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 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |