1993 Citroen Xantia vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1993 Citroen Xantia is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Citroen Xantia (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 643 kg more than 1981 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, 1993 Citroen Xantia (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1993 Citroen Xantia has manual transmission. 1993 Citroen Xantia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Citroen Xantia | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xantia | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
