2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 21 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 570 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider 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:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
