2012 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 657 kg more than 1982 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Passat | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Passat | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1800 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4769 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2712 mm | 2410 mm |
