2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1267 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Explorer | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 344 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2410 mm |