2008 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 1134 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 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, 2008 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 548 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A8 | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A8 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3936 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 271 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 650 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1944 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2410 mm |