2008 GMC Yukon vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 GMC Yukon 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 6,199 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Yukon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Yukon (380 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Yukon should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Yukon weights approximately 1331 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.
Because 2008 GMC Yukon 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 GMC Yukon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 GMC Yukon (566 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 462 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Yukon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 GMC Yukon 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 GMC Yukon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Yukon | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Yukon | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6199 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 380 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 566 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
