2009 Dodge Sprinter vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Dodge Sprinter 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Sprinter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Sprinter (155 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Sprinter should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Sprinter weights approximately 1150 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 Dodge Sprinter 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 Dodge Sprinter. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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 Dodge Sprinter (380 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2009 Dodge Sprinter has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Sprinter will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Sprinter | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sprinter | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 7350 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2740 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4330 mm | 2410 mm |
