2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 615 kg more than 1979 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 Dodge Caliber (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Dodge Caliber has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Dodge Caliber will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Dodge Caliber | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Caliber | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |