2012 Nissan Pathfinder vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder (266 HP) has 219 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 1200 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Nissan Pathfinder (390 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Pathfinder | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pathfinder | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2070 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4884 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1849 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1834 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
