1987 Citroen AX vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1987 Citroen AX is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Citroen AX (44 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Citroen AX should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 98 kg more than 1987 Citroen AX.
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, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (73 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1978 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Citroen AX | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | AX | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 954 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 722 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2410 mm |
