1999 Kia Clarus vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1999 Kia Clarus is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Kia Clarus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Clarus (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Clarus should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Clarus weights approximately 405 kg more than 1981 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, 1999 Kia Clarus (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Clarus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Clarus | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Kia | Volkswagen |
| Model | Clarus | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
