1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,457 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (102 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (124 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 145 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
