2007 Toyota 4Runner vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2007 Toyota 4Runner 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 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Toyota 4Runner (260 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 229 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 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner (415 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2007 Toyota 4Runner 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 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Toyota 4Runner | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4Runner | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4662 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 415 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2410 mm |
