2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1020 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 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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 E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | E | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 303 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1865 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |