2005 Audi S8 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2005 Audi S8 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi S8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi S8 weights approximately 925 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.

Because 2005 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi S8 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, 2005 Audi S8 (450 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Audi S8 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model S8 Rabbit
Year Released 2005 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4172 cc 1715 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 247 HP 72 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 450 Nm 122 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type AWD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1770 kg 845 kg
Wheelbase Size 2290 mm 2410 mm