2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 426 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
