1978 Citroen CX vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Citroen CX would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1978 Citroen CX. (74 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 250 kg more than 1978 Citroen CX. 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 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Citroen CX. (149 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Citroen CX. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1978 Citroen CX has manual transmission. 1978 Citroen CX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Citroen CX | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | CX | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
