2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee (381 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 1018 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee (548 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 444 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Jeep Volkswagen
Model Grand Cherokee Rabbit
Year Released 2009 1980
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5654 cc 1457 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 381 HP 62 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 548 Nm 104 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1828 kg 810 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2790 mm 2410 mm