2008 Buick Lucerne vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Buick Lucerne is newer by 27 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick Lucerne (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 1013 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.
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, 2008 Buick Lucerne (308 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Buick Lucerne 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. 2008 Buick Lucerne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Buick Lucerne | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Lucerne | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 308 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2410 mm |