2008 Nissan Micra vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Nissan Micra 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 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Micra (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Micra should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Micra weights approximately 204 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 Nissan Micra (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Micra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Micra | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Micra | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1461 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1049 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
