2006 Chrysler Neon vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2006 Chrysler Neon is newer by 25 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler Neon (131 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 810 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, 2006 Chrysler Neon (178 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler Neon | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Neon | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
