1988 Citroen AX vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Citroen AX would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1988 Citroen AX. (52 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1988 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 774 kg more than 1988 Citroen AX. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Citroen AX. (84 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Citroen AX. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1988 Citroen AX has manual transmission. 1988 Citroen AX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Citroen AX 2012 Volkswagen Passat
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model AX Passat
Year Released 1988 2012
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1360 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 52 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 84 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 750 kg 1524 kg
Vehicle Length 3510 mm 4769 mm
Vehicle Width 1560 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2290 mm 2712 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 43 L 70 L