2009 Citroen C4 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Citroen C4 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C4 (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C4 weights approximately 825 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 Citroen C4 (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C4 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C4 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
