2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
