2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 580 kg more than 1979 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 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, 1979 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 (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 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 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |