1977 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 2004 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 27 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 421 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara (255 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2004 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | 2004 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Citroen |
| Model | Rabbit | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1469 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1291 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
