2008 Mazda 6 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 546 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.
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 Mazda 6 (165 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 6 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
