2005 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1368 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 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2178 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
