2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1015 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nitro | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2768 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
