2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 26 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (285 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber 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, 2008 Dodge Caliber (359 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2008 Dodge Caliber has manual transmission. 2008 Dodge Caliber will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caliber | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
