2005 Subaru Forester vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Subaru Forester 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 2,458 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Subaru Forester (210 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Subaru Forester weights approximately 660 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.
Because 2005 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester (319 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm). This means 2005 Subaru Forester will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Subaru Forester | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Forester | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2458 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
