2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 395 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 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, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (511 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 355 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 511 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |