1996 Citroen Xantia vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1996 Citroen Xantia is newer by 15 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 1,762 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Citroen Xantia (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 460 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, 1996 Citroen Xantia (156 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 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 1996 Citroen Xantia has manual transmission. 1996 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:
1996 Citroen Xantia | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
Model | Xantia | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1762 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 845 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 |