The Vw Rabbit (AKA Mk1) is the first Generation Golf, I believe that in Europe it was called the Golf. It actually looks like a Mk2 Golf, but with more squared body panels. It was produced until 1984. Then when Vw restyled its line, they changed the name to Golf. The Rabbit was available in many configurations including a pickup truck version called the "Caddy" When it was first made the Rabbit came with a 1.5 liter engine, but as the years moved on, the engine size increased to 1.6, then 1.7, and finally in the GTI the very popular 1.8 liter. I dont think that it was ever available with a 16 valve engine, but the 16v is a really popular swap into a Rabbit. It also was available with a Diesel engine, which is usually called the "Rabbit L". The Diesels are usually 4-doors or Pickups, but there are also 2 door Diesels. The most popular version that is now becoming rare and very sought after is the "GTI" which is commonly refered to as the car that started the "Hot hatch" craze in the US. The GTI was produced for 2 years 1983 and 1984 It came with a 1.8 liter engine, CIS injection, and usually a Recaro interior and Manual Tranny.
This is pretty much all I know about Rabbits, and I am writing this off the top of my head, so I might be a little off... Here is a good website that goes more into depth, It has plenty of pictures, and if you look on the left side and down a little, there is a history of the Rabbit...
http://s87762315.onlinehome.us/
Also check out
www.cardomain.com and search under VW Rabbit to see what people do to modify them. If you look under Golf, and compare the pics, you will quickly see how to distinguish the differences between them...
Hope you found that helpful.
Mike.
