1989 Citroen XM vs. 1985 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 40 kg more than 1989 Citroen XM. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. 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, both vehicles can yield 235 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1989 Citroen XM has automatic transmission and 1985 Nissan 300 ZX has manual transmission. 1985 Nissan 300 ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Citroen XM will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1985 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Citroen | Nissan |
| Model | XM | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2530 mm |
