1996 Citroen ZX vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Citroen ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Citroen ZX would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Citroen ZX. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 172 kg more than 1996 Citroen ZX. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen ZX. (155 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen ZX. 2005 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1996 Citroen ZX has manual transmission. 1996 Citroen ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen ZX | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | ZX | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
