2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |