2004 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP) has 283 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1296 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.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Phaeton | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4171 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2166 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
