1989 Citroen XM vs. 1981 Seat 131
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen XM (115 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1981 Seat 131. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1981 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 315 kg more than 1981 Seat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Seat 131 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 1981 Seat 131. 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 (174 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Seat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1989 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Seat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1981 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Citroen | Seat |
| Model | XM | 131 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2500 mm |
