2009 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado (315 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 739 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.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado (458 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Silverado | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Silverado | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 458 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6340 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4010 mm | 2410 mm |
