2007 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 440 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2323 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
