1996 Citroen Xantia vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Citroen Xantia is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,762 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Citroen Xantia (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 495 kg more than 1978 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, 1996 Citroen Xantia (156 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen Xantia | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xantia | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1762 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2410 mm |
