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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 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.
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 (241 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 106 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 | 1896 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
