2008 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 27 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 2,974 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 810 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, 2008 Audi A4 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
