1998 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1982 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 146 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |
