1989 Citroen XM vs. 1979 Renault 5
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 5 would be higher. At 2,088 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Renault 5 (159 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (108 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 367 kg more than 1979 Renault 5.
Because 1979 Renault 5 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 1979 Renault 5. 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 5. (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1979 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Citroen | Renault |
| Model | XM | 5 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2088 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1337 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 56 L |
