1989 Citroen CX vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1989 Citroen CX is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Citroen CX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen CX (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen CX should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen CX weights approximately 235 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1989 Citroen CX (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen CX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen CX | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | CX | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
