2004 Renault Megane vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (133 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Megane weights approximately 545 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 Renault Megane (185 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Renault Megane | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Megane | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
