2009 Mazda 2 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 2 (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 2 weights approximately 85 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 2 (122 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 2 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1347 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
