2005 Opel Astra vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 433 kg more than 1983 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 (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2005 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Opel Astra 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Opel Volkswagen
Model Astra Rabbit
Year Released 2005 1983
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1713 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 123 HP 64 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 116 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1278 kg 845 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2410 mm