1996 Citroen XM vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Citroen XM is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 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) has 40 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Citroen XM weights approximately 460 kg more than 1976 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 @ 4250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Golf. (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen XM | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | XM | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
