1989 Citroen XM vs. 1976 Ford Escort

To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,088 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen XM (108 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1976 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 427 kg more than 1976 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 Ford Escort 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 1976 Ford Escort. 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Citroen XM 1976 Ford Escort
Make Citroen Ford
Model XM Escort
Year Released 1989 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2088 cc 939 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 108 HP 45 HP
Engine RPM 4300 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 235 Nm 60 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1337 kg 910 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4060 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2420 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 53 L