2009 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 28 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (158 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 85 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, 2009 Audi A4 (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2009 Audi A4 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2410 mm |
