2008 Honda Element vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Honda Element 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 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Element weights approximately 1111 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.
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 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Honda Element 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 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Honda Element | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
Model | Element | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 166 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 218 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |