2009 Ford Ranger vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Ford Ranger is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Ranger (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Ranger weights approximately 156 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 Ranger (209 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Ranger | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Ranger | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 209 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |