2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 940 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 388 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 510 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |