2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,798 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (279 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 451 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 Chevrolet Express (399 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2009 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Express | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Express | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4798 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 279 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 399 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 6210 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2090 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3940 mm | 2410 mm |