2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 505 kg more than 1976 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 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
