2005 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 5,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Lumina (325 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 790 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Chevrolet Lumina is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Chevrolet Lumina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Chevrolet Lumina (460 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2005 Chevrolet Lumina has manual transmission. 2005 Chevrolet Lumina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Chevrolet Lumina 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Lumina Rabbit
Year Released 2005 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5799 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 325 HP 51 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 460 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1660 kg 870 kg
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2410 mm