2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 560 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 Volkswagen Jetta (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
