2005 BMW X5 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 1325 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 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 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 BMW X5 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 398 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 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 BMW X5 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW X5 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 BMW X5 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X5 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
