2005 Honda Element vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Honda Element is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda Element (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Honda Element weights approximately 727 kg more than 1979 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 Element (218 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm). This means 2005 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Honda Element | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Element | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1537 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
