2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 565 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
