1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 210 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Xsara | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
