1988 Citroen CX vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1988 Citroen CX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Citroen CX (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Citroen CX should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Citroen CX weights approximately 380 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 1988 Citroen CX (160 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1988 Citroen CX has manual transmission. 1988 Citroen CX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Citroen CX | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | CX | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
