2005 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (84 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 396 kg more than 1981 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 Opel Astra (138 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
