1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 141 kg more than 1979 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.9 mm | 76.6 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2480 mm |
