1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara 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 1,457 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 105 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 Xsara (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
