1986 Citroen BX vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Citroen BX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Citroen BX would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1986 Citroen BX. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 302 kg more than 1986 Citroen BX. 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 New Beetle (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Citroen BX. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Citroen BX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen BX | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | BX | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
