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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 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.
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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 198 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. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A4 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1984 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
