1989 Citroen XM vs. 1954 DKW Coupe

To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 DKW Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 DKW Coupe would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen XM (168 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1954 DKW Coupe. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1954 DKW Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 541 kg more than 1954 DKW Coupe. 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 XM (235 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 DKW Coupe. (69 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 DKW Coupe. 1989 Citroen XM has automatic transmission and 1954 DKW Coupe has manual transmission. 1954 DKW Coupe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Citroen XM will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Citroen XM 1954 DKW Coupe
Make Citroen DKW
Model XM Coupe
Year Released 1989 1954
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2975 cc 903 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 168 HP 34 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 235 Nm 69 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 71.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 73 mm 76 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 6.5:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1420 kg 879 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2340 mm