1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate is newer by 7 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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate (115 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate weights approximately 380 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.
Because 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate 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 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate (163 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo Graduate | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Graduate | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 51 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
