1957 Citroen 2CV vs. 1989 Citroen XM

To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen XM (168 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1957 Citroen 2CV. (12 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1957 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 925 kg more than 1957 Citroen 2CV. 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, 1989 Citroen XM (235 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Citroen 2CV. (25 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Citroen 2CV. 1989 Citroen XM has automatic transmission and 1957 Citroen 2CV has manual transmission. 1957 Citroen 2CV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Citroen XM will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1957 Citroen 2CV 1989 Citroen XM
Make Citroen Citroen
Model 2CV XM
Year Released 1957 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 425 cc 2975 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type boxer V
Horse Power 12 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 25 Nm 235 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4800 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 1420 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 4720 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 19 L 80 L