1983 Citroen BX vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Citroen BX would be higher. At 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 348 more horse power than 1983 Citroen BX. (72 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1983 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 253 kg more than 1983 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Citroen BX, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 422 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Citroen BX. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Citroen BX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Citroen BX | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | BX | W12 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1358 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 899 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2540 mm |
