2009 BMW 125 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2009 BMW 125 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP) has 168 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 456 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 BMW 125 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 BMW 125 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 125 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 125 Rabbit
Year Released 2009 1977
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1469 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 47 HP
Torque 250 Nm 82 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 23.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1326 kg 870 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2410 mm