1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 460 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (97 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1984 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
