2009 Volkswagen GTI vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 560 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.
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 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Volkswagen GTI | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | GTI | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |