1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 16 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 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 390 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 145 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 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 |
