2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
