1996 Citroen XM vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Citroen XM is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Citroen XM (115 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Citroen XM weights approximately 530 kg more than 1974 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 XM (174 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Golf. (85 Nm). This means 1996 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen XM | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | XM | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1091 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 45 L |
