1988 Pontiac Fiero vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1988 Pontiac Fiero is newer by 8 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 2,826 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Fiero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Fiero (143 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Fiero should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Pontiac Fiero weights approximately 440 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 1988 Pontiac Fiero 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 1988 Pontiac Fiero. 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, 1988 Pontiac Fiero (220 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm). This means 1988 Pontiac Fiero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Pontiac Fiero | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiero | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2826 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2410 mm |
