1984 Fiat 131 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1984 Fiat 131 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 70 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Fiat 131 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 1984 Fiat 131 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1984 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat 131. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1984 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1984 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Fiat 131 | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
