2007 Lotus Exige vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2007 Lotus Exige is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lotus Exige (220 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.

Because 2007 Lotus Exige 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 2007 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2007 Lotus Exige (225 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2007 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2007 Lotus Exige will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Lotus Exige 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Lotus Volkswagen
Model Exige Rabbit
Year Released 2007 1977
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 220 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 8000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 225 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 3300 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 3800 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1160 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2310 mm 2410 mm