2005 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 1095 kg more than 1978 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lancer | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
