2009 Audi A8 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (272 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 1135 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 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, 2009 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 539 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Audi A8 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model A8 Rabbit
Year Released 2009 1977
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3936 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 272 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 3750 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 650 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.5 mm 80 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1940 kg 805 kg
Vehicle Length 5190 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3080 mm 2410 mm