2008 MG ZR vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 MG ZR 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 MG ZR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 MG ZR (159 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 MG ZR weights approximately 375 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.
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 MG ZR (174 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 MG ZR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 MG ZR | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | ZR | 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 | 159 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
