2005 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 24 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (220 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 585 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, 2005 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
