2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 23 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 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 560 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 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 | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
