1982 Volkswagen Rabbit Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$6,290 to $10,400

Original MSRP

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expert review

3.9

avg user rating

(11 reviews)
1982 Volkswagen Rabbit Preview summaryImage

The 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit was essentially a retread of the '81 version. The standard powerplant was a four-cylinder, 1.7-liter single-overhead-cam gas engine that generated 74 horsepower. Also available was an optional 1.6-liter diesel engine, which generated 52 horsepower.

Drivers could choose from a two-door or four-door hatchback, as well as a Rabbit pickup and a Rabbit convertible. MacPherson struts, large disc brakes, rack and pinion steering, four-wheel independent suspension, and energy-absorbing bumpers were all standard equipment. Other standard features and options included an AM/FM radio, color-coordinated interiors, reclining front seats, a rear window defogger, a wood-grained dash, and air conditioning.

Drivers generally were favorable in their comments about the Rabbit, with the vehicle's reliability, quickness, gas mileage, and durability often cited as positive points. Drivers also noted the Rabbit was fun to drive, which certainly was a large part of its appeal.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 9, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit

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User rating:
by Chris C
Jul 25, 2010
Performance: Acceleration out of the 1.6 Diesel is not earth shattering, but it moves the little car around with ease and does what you ask of it. Handling and braking are good and predictable. Build Quality: Well as it's been 27 years since it was made, and it's still almost all original, build quality is definitely all there. Apperiance: I love it. 80's hatches will never die. Cost of ownership: Damn near nothing. 44mpg. Just oil changes and maintenance. I've put 100k on this car to it's current 240k, it's never let me down once in the last three years. Fun Factor: It's always fun, that's one of the really cool points of this car, it's got more soul then big foots shoe.Jul 25, 2010
by Anonymous
Aug 20, 2009
This was my favorite car ever. Ran like a champ with the rotary engine. never needed more than exhaust and an oil change. Oh, yeah, new sparkplugs. That is, until the deer ran into it and the service guys screwed it up driving it with a bad radiator.Aug 20, 2009
by William S
May 30, 2009
this is my 83 vw rabbit LS. It is a 1.8 four cylinder with a four speed trans. i am in the process of rebuilding the motor on it and converting it to the five valve per cylinder audi tt head with a KO4 turbo upgrade. I would like to put a GTI five speed in it, but its a one step at a time project.May 30, 2009

1982 Volkswagen Rabbit Pricing

Original MSRP
$6,290 to $10,400
Price range
N/A
Average price on CG
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YoY price change
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Trims & specs

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Audio System

AM/FM radio

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (7)