1997 Citroen Xantia vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xantia is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xantia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xantia (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xantia should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xantia weights approximately 537 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1997 Citroen Xantia (267 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xantia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xantia | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xantia | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2400 mm |
