2009 Ford E-350 vs. 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2009 Ford E-350 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford E-350 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Ford E-350 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 Ford E-350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Ford E-350 1975 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model E-350 Rabbit
Year Released 2009 1975
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5409 cc 1470 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 255 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 475 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Vehicle Weight 966 kg 795 kg
Vehicle Length 5520 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 2120 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3510 mm 2410 mm