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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (229 HP) has 182 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). 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 960 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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 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 2966 cc 1469 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 229 HP 47 HP
Torque 450 Nm 82 Nm
Torque RPM 1400 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91.4 mm 80 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 23.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 870 kg
Vehicle Height 1900 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2410 mm