1980 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 805 kg more than 1980 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Rabbit | 159 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1457 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
