1989 Citroen XM vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Citroen XM. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Citroen XM would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (130 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 180 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.

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, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (177 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta 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. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Citroen XM 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model XM Jetta
Year Released 1989 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 130 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 177 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 1490 kg
Vehicle Length 4720 mm 4554 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1781 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1458 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2578 mm