2007 Jeep Cherokee vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2007 Jeep Cherokee is newer by 26 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Jeep Cherokee (201 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 1019 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 2007 Jeep Cherokee 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, 2007 Jeep Cherokee 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, 2007 Jeep Cherokee (307 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Jeep Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2007 Jeep Cherokee 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. 2007 Jeep Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Jeep Cherokee 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Jeep Volkswagen
Model Cherokee Rabbit
Year Released 2007 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3700 cc 1455 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 201 HP 62 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 307 Nm 104 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1829 kg 810 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2410 mm