2005 Nissan Maxima vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima 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 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (276 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 768 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 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Maxima | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
