2009 Chevrolet Captiva vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Captiva 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 2,405 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Captiva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Captiva (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Captiva should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Captiva weights approximately 416 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 Chevrolet Captiva (220 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Captiva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Captiva | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Captiva | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2405 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
