2005 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 507 kg more than 1976 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
