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 1,471 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 231 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 (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 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.
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 | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
