2005 Ford Focus vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (108 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 465 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.
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 Ford Focus (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
