2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 745 kg more than 1976 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 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1588 cc |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |