2008 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1977 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
