2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 640 kg more than 1984 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1984 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. 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1984 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Caliber | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 845 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 |
