2008 Lexus IS vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 930 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Lexus IS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS will offer significantly more control. 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 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Lexus IS | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Lexus | Volkswagen |
Model | IS | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3456 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 306 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 376 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |