2006 Alpina B5 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2006 Alpina B5 is newer by 26 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alpina B5 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 441 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (51 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 2006 Alpina B5 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Alpina B5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Alpina B5 (701 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 605 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina B5 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B5 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 701 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2410 mm |
