1996 Citroen Saxo vs. 1979 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1996 Citroen Saxo is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Citroen Saxo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Citroen Saxo (118 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Saxo should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Citroen Saxo weights approximately 185 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Volkswagen 1302 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 1979 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Saxo, 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, 1996 Citroen Saxo (145 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Citroen Saxo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen Saxo | 1979 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Saxo | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2410 mm |
