1989 Citroen XM vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 23 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), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1989 Citroen XM. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1989 Citroen XM. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 100 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.

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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (225 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM. 2012 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. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Citroen XM 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Citroen Volkswagen
Model XM Jetta
Year Released 1989 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1905 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 141 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 225 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 2200 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4970 mm 4557 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1781 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2578 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 55 L