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1979 Volkswagen Rabbit Overview
The 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit was the first VW made in America, at a new plant in western Pennsylvania near Pittsburgh. In fact, the '79 Rabbits were the first European cars produced in the U.S., and demand was high for the high-mileage vehicles, especially at a time when a gas crisis was pushing up prices at the pump.
One of the most noticeable changes for the American-made Rabbit was the use of square headlights in a black grille, instead of round headlights. New trim packages were also available for 1979, with a Rabbit C and a Rabbit L joining the basic Rabbit in the lineup.
The Rabbit C package was equipped with an AM/FM radio, a color-coordinated interior, reclining front seats, a rear window defogger, and a day/night rearview mirror, while the Rabbit L package added such features as a wood-grained dash, special moldings on the windows and hatch, and a lockable glovebox. In addition, several other special packages were available, including the Rallye Package, an Air Conditioning Package, and a Custom Exterior Package. Plus, the Rabbit was available in a number of new colors for '79.
Standard power for the Rabbit was a 1.5-liter overhead-cam four-cylinder engine that generated 71 horsepower. A 1.5-liter diesel engine (made in Germany) was also available. MacPherson struts, large disc brakes, rack and pinion steering, four-wheel independent suspension, and energy-absorbing bumpers were all standard equipment.
The 1979 Rabbit was generally very popular with drivers, particularly the diesel models, which were especially appreciated for their high gas mileage at a time when gas prices were soaring
What's your take on the 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit?
Cars compared to 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
Looking for a Used Rabbit in your area?
CarGurus has 281 nationwide Rabbit listings starting at $1,500.
Price
I have a 1979 VW rabbit 2 door hatch backwith a diesel motor, motor needs to be rebuilt, has 8751.1 miles on it in fair shape. I was wondering what this car would be worth ?
Was This Car The Only Diesel Car Available In The U.S.A. At The Time?
Engine Timing
I have an '81 diesel engine in my '79 rabbit. I was wondering how to tell if the engine is a two stroke or a four stroke. Thanks
Will Ford Fusion Rims Fit 1979 Rabbt
"1979 Voits Wagon Rabbit Diesel
oil in water
Christina Love this car. We have one for sale. Ad can be seen at: http://denver.craigslist.org/cto/5177968598.html
Robert Had one, purchased new, in 1979. White with blue vinyl interior, and air conditioning; I think it was the C version. Great driving car, with terrible electrical system. After I sold it it burst into flames for the poor bastard who bought it. And the paint was dreadful But the car was fun and versatile.
Laurence_ My first new car, made it 98K over seven years. Fun car with a MT and 13" wheels. I moved myself and my (future) wife back and forth from our colleges at least a dozen times in that car. It survived a couple blizzards and a deer strike in Pennsylvania. Traded it when electrical gremlins showed up. I've never been sure that we need cars any larger than this one.