2012 Audi R8 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 350 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 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, 2012 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi R8 | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | R8 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4200 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4435 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1905 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2649 mm | 2410 mm |
