1981 Citroen CX vs. 2008 Volkswagen GLI

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GLI is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Citroen CX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Citroen CX would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen GLI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1981 Citroen CX. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI should accelerate faster than 1981 Citroen CX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen GLI weights approximately 11 kg more than 1981 Citroen CX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen GLI is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Citroen CX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GLI will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen GLI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Citroen CX. (152 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen GLI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Citroen CX.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Citroen CX 2008 Volkswagen GLI
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model CX GLI
Year Released 1981 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 105 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 152 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 1800 RPM
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1225 kg 1236 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 4560 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 5.2 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 55 L