2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 617 kg more than 1976 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 Passat (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
