1996 Citroen Saxo vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
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 Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Citroen Saxo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Citroen Saxo (55 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (50 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Saxo should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Citroen Saxo weights approximately 140 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1996 Citroen Saxo (95 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Citroen Saxo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen Saxo | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Saxo | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 50 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2410 mm |
