2005 Honda Civic vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Honda Civic 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 1,671 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda Civic (117 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Honda Civic weights approximately 344 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 Honda Civic (149 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Honda Civic | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1671 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1154 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
