1989 Citroen XM vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle 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 130 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 680 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | XM | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
