1989 Citroen XM vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 (170 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 694 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 (240 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1989 Citroen XM has manual transmission. 1989 Citroen XM will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | XM | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
