2008 Mini Cooper Clubman vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman weights approximately 335 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.
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 Mini Cooper Clubman (156 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman has manual transmission. 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cooper Clubman | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
