2005 Toyota Prius vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Toyota Prius is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Prius (76 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Prius weights approximately 540 kg more than 1980 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 Toyota Prius (115 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota Prius will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2005 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Toyota Prius | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prius | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1497 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2410 mm |
