2008 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 505 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.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 (286 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Passat | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
